BAPTISM 
Baptism is not for everyone. It is to be enjoyed by only those that are eligible and have a true desire to be obedient to the Lord. Baptism is an act of obedience for those who are saved.
And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water, what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, if thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. Acts 8:36, 37
The baptism is performed as soon as possible following a public profession of faith in Jesus Christ as Saviour. Unfortunately, the traditions of man have corrupted many of God's Truth's, including the ordinance of Baptism.
The PURPOSE
Baptism is a public declaration that you believe Jesus died on the cross to pay for your sin, was buried, rose again and because of your acceptance of Him as Saviour, He will deliver you to an eternal home in Heaven. Baptism is also a commitment, like the signing of an agreement, to be an unashamed disciple of the Lord. It expresses your desire to live (a daily walk) in this “newness of life.”
Therefore we are buried with Him by baptism into death; that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Romans 6:4
Baptism is for all those desiring to follow in the path of their Saviour.
And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. Mark 1:9
The PICTURE
Baptism is a picture of a burial; the burial of Christ. It pictures His death, burial and resurrection. Such being the picture God intended, it is clear the “sprinkling” of water is not a baptism. God calls for a burial to occur.
Buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with Him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead.
Col. 2:12
We are to be Baptized God's way – being completely immersed; as a picture of His Son's death, burial and resurrection. It is to serve as a reminder that WE, in our sins, are participants in His going to the cross.
The ACHIEVEMENT
Baptism unites you to a local New Testament Church. Most accurately today, a Baptist Church.
Then they that gladly received His word were baptized; and the same day, there were added unto them (the church) about three thousand souls.
Acts 2:41
Likewise, it publicly distinguishes you from the rest of the lost world. It shows mankind and God that your decision and commitment are sincere. You are different from what you were; you have taken your first step of obedience to the Lord and are in the first day of the rest of your life. As you demonstrate you obedience to the Lord, it allows you to become draw closer in your relationship to Him. As a part of a church body, new relationships and support abounds. You are no longer alone in service, but a part of a team, a part of a family.
The LIES
The traditions of men have turned much of God's Truth into lies. To discern Truth from Lie, you need only turn to the Word of God – the King James Bible. It will answer all questions regarding doctrine and Truth. When could this be of greater importance than when dealing with the question of salvation and eternity. God uses only His Word as the standard of right and wrong. Therefore, should not we do the same? Being wrong about baptism can lead to Hell. You need to discern the lies.
Baptism is not necessary for salvation.
As Jesus hung on the cross, he spoke to the thief crucified nest to Him. This thief was to see no baptism before his death... And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.
Luke 23:43
Baptism has no power of salvation.
It is an act of obedience and demonstration of heart. Sometimes referred to as a sacrament, this would imply that the act of baptism had some power to produce an effect. In this case, the power to produce salvation. Neither Baptism, nor any other act (work), has the power to save. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Ephesians 2:8,9
Baptism does not cleanse us or wash away our sin.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1John 1:9
The SUMMARY
Baptism is only for the saved. It is not for babies, children or anyone else incapable of understanding their accountability for sin and God's plan of salvation. Baptism is certainly not for the unbeliever who has refused Jesus Christ as Saviour. To baptize someone that is not deserving is to provide a false sense of salvation. They may come to rely upon the act of baptism for their salvation. To depend upon baptism for salvation and a home in Heaven, is a lie from Hell. Baptism is not a salvation, it is a demonstration – of a person's new heart. Baptism is not an assurance of anything. It does not get one saved, nor does it keep one saved. Once saved, always saved! A saved believer gets baptized because they are saved.