The Greek root-word baptizein [baptivzw] means to plunge, immerse, sink; hence to wash; to be immersed, overwhelmed (in trouble).  

Baptism is a symbol of our union with Christ, the forgiveness of our sins, and our reception of the Holy Spirit.It is by immersion in water and is contingent on an affirmation of faith in Jesus and evidence of repentance of sin. It follows instruction in the Holy Scriptures and acceptance of their teachings. (Matt. 28:19, 20; Acts 2:38; 16:30-33; 22:16; Rom. 6:1-6; Gal. 3:27; Col. 2:12, 13.)

Math 28:19   NKJV  

¹⁹ Go ^a]”>[a]therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

Baptism moves the heart of the believer toward a closer relationship with Christ. In the Bible we see baptism demonstrated as part of the Christian life. Baptism marks a choice, a transition in the heart of the believer. It’s the beginning of an intentional journey of a life deeply changed. 

Jesus commanded believers to go out into all the world preaching the Good News. He told the disciples to teach people about how they could be saved. And He said new believers were to be baptized!

Matthew 28:19, 20, ESV

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”

Baptism is an integral part of the great gospel commission. Jesus told His disciples to baptize new believers as they preached the Word of God. And baptism is a key component of the Christian faith.

Everyone who accepts Jesus to be their Lord and Saviour.

Baptism is simply an outward expression of a Christian’s faith. Jesus’ example of baptism demonstrated his dedication to His Father in Heaven. Christians show their dedication to God through the biblical practice of baptism.

In the Bible we find John the Baptist preaching and baptizing believers. Luke 3 tells the story of John’s “preparing the way” for the coming of the Lord.

If we read about the baptisms in the New Testament we find some similarities.

1. The people believed the good news they heard (Acts 2:41)
2. Believers were confessing their sins (Mark 1:5)
3. Baptisms were the result of repentance in the believer (Matthew 3:11, Acts 2:38)

Baptisms in the Bible were joyful events. Each believer who was baptized believed in the good news they had heardthat Jesus was the Son of God and the long awaited Messiah. 

They confessed their sins and gave up their own desires to follow Him. And, they desired to be baptized as a result of their repentance.

If you want to be baptized in the Adventist church, your pastor may invite you to a baptismal class which occurs every quarterly.

These classes are designed to teach people the basics of biblical knowledge and spiritual development. You’ll also learn about the doctrines of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. 

In the Adventist church, Baptism is performed by fully immersing a person under water. 

Adventists perform the ordinance of baptism because of its biblical significance. Jesus was fully immersed in water and we follow His example. 

When you’re baptized in the Adventist church, it is a declaration that you are dying to your “old self.”

When you “die to your old self” you are essentially choosing to walk in faith, ready to follow Jesus and do His will. Our slavery to sin is dying as we claim Christ’s resurrection to a new life with Him as our guide.

Baptism is also used in church membership categories, but this is not an issue of salvation. It’s just an administrative method of keeping up with a large family of believers. 

All in all, Jesus is the reason for all beliefs in the Adventist church, including baptism by immersion. It is an important step in the life of a believer and reason to celebrate, because they are declaring their intent to follow Jesus—and only through Him can we find freedom, healing, and hope.