Different churches have different views on this very important subject. I believe the Bible teaches us that water baptism is an important act of obedience and very symbolic.
In the Bible it always took place after a heart belief in and a mouth confession of Jesus as Lord (Rom. 10:8-17). Nowhere in the Bible will you find that water baptism comes before a heart belief and mouth confession of Jesus. Here are two examples:
Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did....
But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.
(Acts 8:5-6, 12-13)
And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, "I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?" Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.
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."
And he answered and said, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.
(Acts 8:34-38)
All rights reserved. Used by permission.