3 Songs About Baptism
Baptism is a profound rite of passage in many faith traditions, symbolizing purification, rebirth, and a commitment to a spiritual path. Music has long been a medium through which these themes are expressed, allowing for personal reflection and communal celebration. Here are four songs about baptism that beautifully encapsulate the essence of baptism, along with their key themes.
Songs about baptism
1. “Down to the River to Pray”
This traditional American folk hymn has roots in the African American spiritual tradition. Often associated with baptism, the song calls for communal gathering and the seeking of spiritual cleansing. Its simple yet powerful lyrics evoke imagery of a journey to the water, a metaphor for renewal and connection with faith.
“Down to The River to Pray by Alison Krauss (lyrics)
2. “Come to the Water” by Matt Maher
Contemporary Christian artist Matt Maher offers a warm invitation in “Come to the Water.” The song speaks directly to those yearning for renewal, emphasizing that the waters of baptism are a welcoming place of healing and new beginnings. It encapsulates the joy and hope found in surrendering to faith.
Note: This song features inviting lyrics that encourage listeners to embrace the life-changing experience of baptism.
“Come To The Water” (lyrics)
Let them come to the water
And let all who have nothing
Let them come to the Lord
Without money, without price
Why should you pay the price
Except for the Lord?And let all who seek
Let them come to the water
And let all who have nothing
Let them come to the Lord
Without money, without strife
Why should you spend your life
Except for the Lord?And let all who toil
Let them come to the water
And let all who are weary
Let them come to the Lord
All who labor without rest
How can your soul find rest
Except for the Lord?And let all the poor
Let them come to the water
And let the ones who are laden
Let them come to the Lord
Bring the children without might
Easy the load and light
Come to the Lord
Come to the Lord
Come to the Lord
Come to the Lord
I will run to you, I will run to you
I will run to you my Lord
I will run to you, I will run to you
I will run to you my Lord
3. “I Will Rise” by Chris Tomlin
Though not explicitly about baptism, Chris Tomlin’s “I Will Rise” resonates deeply with the themes of resurrection and new life. The song embodies the spirit of hope that baptism represents, reminding us of the promise of renewal and the transformative power of faith.
Note: The lyrics reflect themes of overcoming struggles and celebrating the new life that faith can bring.
“I Will Rise” by Chris Tomlin (Lyrics):
Though my heart and flesh may fail
There’s an anchor for my soul
I can say “It is well”Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the deadAnd I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles’ wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will riseThere’s a day that’s drawing near
When this darkness breaks to light
And the shadows disappear
And my faith shall be my eyes
Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead
And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles’ wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise
And I hear the voice of many angels sing,
“Worthy is the Lamb”
And I hear the cry of every longing heart,
“Worthy is the Lamb”
And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles’ wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise
Whether you’re preparing for baptism or simply reflecting on your faith, these songs about baptism can serve as a beautiful backdrop for your journey.
Image credit: Ron Lach
