Because Jesus instructed us to be baptized, baptism is an act of obedience. While it is not necessary for salvation, it demonstrates submission to God. Just before Jesus ascended into heaven, he gave one last command known as the “Great Commission.” He said, “Go and make disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded.” (Matthew 28:19-20) For the past 2,000+ years, baptism has been the way that Christians have publicly declared their love for Jesus and their devotion to follow him all the days of their lives.