BAPTISM

Historically, the first step new followers of Jesus have taken is to follow His example through baptism. Jesus died, was buried, and rose on our behalf and He asks us to demonstrate our faith in Him by symbolically doing the same in water. The water has no power. Jesus gives us new life. But, it is important to publicly profess our faith, and the initial way that is done is through baptism. It does not make you a Christian. Only your faith in Christ does that. It also does not “wash all of our sins away.” It’s a powerful demonstration of what Jesus has done in your life. If you would like to talk a staff member about being baptized, please let us know! Our church would love to celebrate with you.

Q: Why should I be baptized?

A: To follow the example of Christ.
”At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan.” (Mark 1:9)
A: Because Christ commanded it.
”Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)

Q: Why should I be baptized by immersion?

A: Because Jesus was baptized that way.
”As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water…” (Matthew 3:16)
Every baptism in the Bible is by immersion. The New Testament word “baptize” means “to dip.” It best symbolizes burial and resurrection.

Q: What is the meaning of baptism?

A: It illustrates the death, burial and resurrection of Christ.
”…having been buried with him in baptism and raised with him through your faith in the power of God, who raised him from the dead.” (Colossians 2:12)
A: It identifies you as a follower of Jesus Christ.
”We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” (Romans 6:4)

Q: When should I be baptized?

A: As close to the time of your salvation as possible.
”Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.” (Acts 2:41)