There are practices that historically have been so firmly established as part of the Christian faith that they begin to define what it means to be a Christian. For early believers, the idea of considering oneself a Christian who did not engage in these practices is like being rain that is not wet or a tree without wood. These practices are Baptism as a celebration of your salvation, Church as a priority, and discipleship as a daily practice of intentionally seeking and following Jesus. In Week 1 of the Essentials of Faith series, we'll look at how the practice of Baptism is essential for a follower of Jesus.