Trying to explain Baptism

Some tweets reflecting on the sociological dimensions of baptism for pastors revisiting their practice of it; that might also function as responses to the understandable question from a non-Christian:
"Baptism seems very silly and weird and religious. Why would someone do that?"

This is obvious once I point it out but:
Baptism (infant, believer's, or the similar practice of confirmation) is much less of a decisive public choice if a lot of other people are doing it too. If you're the only one among your peers, it is much more awkward / courageous.
— Andy Rowell (@AndyRowell) June 17, 2021

Some of the audience at a baptism secretly cringes because the teen has no idea what it will mean to live as a Christian or the couple has no idea what it will mean to raise their child as a Christian. But baptism indicates they have the faith of a mustard seed, which is enough.
— Andy Rowell (@AndyRowell) June 17, 2021

The conscientious person, the sober person is hesitant about baptism. "Can I make this commitment? Should I not do more research?" But baptism is not having all your ducks in a row. It's about saying: "I know I don't want that old way of life, I want this new way. Let's do this."
— Andy Rowell (@AndyRowell) June 17, 2021

Baptism is like registering for a marathon or going to an AA meeting or buying a house or accepting that college admission or joining the military or getting engaged.
“I know enough. I don't know all that this means but let’s do this. I’m in. I want to try this. Let's go.”
— Andy Rowell (@AndyRowell) June 17, 2021

This is how Christians should respond to a baptism. "Woo-hoo! Good for you! We don’t expect that you know everything! Though we too are just fellow travelers, we'll try to support you with love and resources!”
— Andy Rowell (@AndyRowell) June 17, 2021

Baptism is a tiny bit embarrassing because normally people don't see you wet. With umbrellas, we are rarely soaked. Most people only swim with family or other swimmers. So getting dunked is slightly humorous. Baby's eyes widen when they get wet. The laughter is socially bonding.
— Andy Rowell (@AndyRowell) June 17, 2021

Originally tweeted by Andy Rowell (@AndyRowell) on June 17, 2021.