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The greatest decision you can make in your life is excepting Jesus Christ. Making that decision is just the beginning of a lifetime walk with Christ. We pray that your considering taking the NEXT STEP of obedience in baptism.
If you’re interested in getting baptized, fill out the form below and we will schedule a time for your baptism. Once we have received your message we will contact you with our upcoming baptism dates.
Questions and Answers about Baptism:
I. Why Should I be Baptized?
A. To follow the example set by Christ. “At that time Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river.” (Mark 1:9)
B. Because Christ commanded it. “Jesus said, ‘Go then, to all people everywhere and make them my disciple, baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and then teach them to obey everything that I have commanded you.’” (Matthew 28:19-20)
C. It demonstrates that I really am a follower of Christ. “We know that we have come to know Him, if we obey His commands.” (I John 2:3)
II. What is the Meaning of Baptism?
A. It illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. “Christ dies for our sins…He was buried…and He rose again.” (I Corinthians 15:3-4)
“For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ.” (Colossians 2:12)
B. It illustrates my new life as a Christian. “When someone becomes a Christian he becomes a brand new person inside. The old life has passed away and a new life has begun!” (II Corinthians 5:17)
“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)
C. Baptism doesn’t make you a Christian. Only your faith in Christ does that. Baptism is like a wedding ring – it’s the outward sign of the commitment you have made in your heart (Ephesians 2:8-9). Baptism by immersion follows after a person becomes a follower of Christ.
III. Why 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)
B. Every baptism in the Bible was by immersion. (for example) “…then both Philip and the man went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water…” (Acts 8:38-39)
C. The word “baptize” means “to dip under water”.
D. It best symbolizes a burial and resurrection (see Romans 6:1-11)
IV. Who Should be Baptized?
Every person who has believed in Christ. A Believer is someone who has realized that their sin separated them from God. They have given up all efforts to reach God through good works or religious activity. They have concluded that Jesus Christ’s death on the cross for their sins is the only thing that can bridge the gap between them and God. A Believer is someone who has decided to trust Christ alone for their salvation. If you have come to that point in your spiritual journey, then you are ready to be baptized (Acts 2:41; 8:12-13).
V. When Should I Be Baptized?
As soon as you have believed. “ Those who believed were baptized that day!” (Acts 2:41)
“Then Philip began with scripture and told him the Good News about Jesus. As they traveled along the road, they came to some water, and the man said, ‘Look, here is water! Why shouldn’t I be baptized right now?’ Philip said, ‘If you believe with all your heart, you may.’ The man answered, ‘I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.’ So they went down into the water and Philip baptized him.” (Acts 8:35-38).
VI. Does This Mean It Has To Be Immediately?
No, what the Bible is trying to teach is that baptism should follow your decision to become a Christ-follower. There is no reason to delay. If you wait until you are “good” enough, you will never feel ready for baptism.
VII. What Do I Wear?
Dress in clothes you don’t mind getting wet! Dark colored shorts and t-shirt is good. Make sure that you remember to bring a towel and a change of clothes to wear after baptism. We will have a quick huddle in the concourse about 30 minutes before the service that you are getting baptized in to pray and prepare.