Why Shouldn't I Be Baptized?

As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, "Look, here is water. Why shouldn't I be baptized?" -Acts 8:36 (NIV)

With the story of the Ethiopian eunuch, we have an example of conversion. It involved someone who was very religious, yet still lost (Acts 8:27-28); who was willing to learn, and open to being taught (Acts 8:29-34); to whom Philip preached Jesus (Acts 8:35); and who then immediately requested and received baptism (Acts 8:36-38).

His inquiry, "See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?" is enlightening. It reveals that baptism in water was integral to preaching Christ (Acts 8:35-36). Indeed it was commanded by Christ Himself (Mark 16:15-16). Similarly, His apostles commanded it as well (Acts 2:38; 10:47-48).

His (the eunuch) inquiry also raises questions that we do well to ask, as well. What does hinder, or prevent one from being baptized? And, what should not hinder one from being baptized? Let's see if we can answer these questions. Perhaps it is good to begin with that which "does hinder one."

For one thing, there may be the clear lack of faith. Belief in Christ as a prerequisite is clearly stated by Philip (Acts 8:37). Jesus also stressed the necessity of faith (Mark 16:16; John 8:24). For if one does not believe, or is incapable of belief, then that can prevent baptism.

Then there can be the lack of repentance. Repentance as a prerequisite to baptism is implied by Peter (Acts 2:36-38). It is clearly a prerequisite to having one's sins "blotted out" (Acts 3:19). If one does not repent, or is incapable of repentance, then that hinders baptism.

Maybe it's the lack of water? Here, we are talking about baptism in water (Acts 8:36; 10:47). This is a baptism that "washes away sin", because it is a burial with Christ (Acts 22:16; Romans 6:3-4). Therefore, if there is no water, then that hinders baptism.

Of course, lack of water is rarely the issue. God has made water plentiful. It is the lack of faith or repentance that is really the only thing that hinders one from being baptized. Yet people often allow things they should not to keep themselves from being baptized. But what "things" are we talking about? Let us now examine "what should not hinder one."

We shall begin with PRIDE. Some are too proud to admit they need forgiveness for their sins. Some are too proud to acknowledge they are mistaken about their need for baptism. Unfortunately, such pride will keep God away (Psalm 138:6; James 4:6). Pride should never hinder one from being baptized! Next, there is FAMILY. Some are concerned what their family will think. Perhaps they are afraid of being disowned by their family. Jesus made it clear that family should not prevent us from doing His will (Matthew 10:37-38). Family should never hinder one from being baptized!

Maybe it is PEER PRESSURE. Some are afraid of being ridiculed or ostracized by their friends. It was peer pressure that kept some from confessing Jesus (John 12:42-43). Jesus made it clear that what others think should not sway us (Luke 9:26). Peer pressure should never hinder one from being baptized! In some cases it might be IMPROPER UNDERSTANDING. Some believe they do not know enough to be baptized. They presume that one must know everything the Bible teaches. Yet like the eunuch, most conversions in the NT occurred after one sermon. Jesus stated that much teaching follows, not precedes, baptism (Matthew 28:19-20). If one is a penitent (expressing sorrow for sin) believer, willing to follow Jesus as Lord, they are ready.

Some believe they are not good enough to be baptized. They presume that they must reform themselves first. But baptism is for sinners, not saints. Much spiritual development occurs after salvation, not before (Colossians 3:1-14). If one has repented (changed their mind to serve God), they are ready. Misunderstanding should never hinder one from being baptized!

The TIME OF DAY OR NIGHT might prevent one from being baptized. Some may think baptism can occur only at certain times. As in response to the invitation at the end of a sermon, or at some special baptismal service. The eunuch's baptism illustrates it can be done anywhere, anytime (Acts 8:38). Likewise the baptisms of the Philippian jailor and his family (Acts 16:25-33). The time or place should never hinder one from being baptized!

After the eunuch was baptized, he went on his way rejoicing (Acts 8:39). Why? He believed that Jesus was the Christ, who died for his sins. He had confessed his faith in Jesus as the Christ. And even though it was not mentioned, we can assume that he repented of his sins. My dear friends, if you desire the same assurance of salvation that the eunuch enjoyed, then let nothing hinder you from obeying the gospel in the same manner. Be baptized as soon as possible, upon the confession of your faith in Jesus!

Prayer: The Lord's Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen

May God bless you,

Gayle