Why be baptized?
1. Because you want to follow Christ's example.
Mark 1:9
2. Because Christ commanded it.
Matthew 28:19-20
3. Because it shows you are a believer.
Acts 18:8
4. Because obeying Christ's command shows you know Him.
I John 2:3
The meaning of baptism...
1.It is a symbol of Christ's burial and resurrection.
I Corinthians 12:3,4;
Colossians 2:12
2. . It is a symbol of your new life as a Christian.
II Corinthians 5:17:
Baptism does not make you a believer, it shows that you are
already one! Baptism does not "save" you; only your faith in
Christ does that. Baptism is like a wedding ring-it's the
outward symbol of an inner commitment.
Tooltip
How are we to be baptized?
1. Like Jesus was baptized-by being immersed in water.
Matthew 3:16
2. Every baptism in the Bible was by immersion under water.
Acts 8:38,39
3. The word "Baptize" literally means "to dip under water". The Greek word "baptize" means "to immerse or dip under water."
4. Immersion Baptism is the best way to picture a burial and resurrection.
Who should be baptized?
Every person who has made the decision to believe in Christ.
Acts 2:41
We baptize children when they are old enough to understand and believe.
When are we to be baptized?
As soon as you have believed! You shouldn't delay.
"Those who believed . .. were baptized . .. that day!"
Acts 2:41
There is no reason to delay. As soon as a person decides
to believe in Christ, he can and should be baptized.
What about being baptized twice?
Our church strongly recommends, but does not require, that you be baptized again if you have not been baptized by immersion since you became a believer. It doesn't devalue a prior experience but simply reflects your desire to be baptized in the same way Jesus was baptized.
Can a family be baptized together?
Yes! If each family member understands fully the meaning of baptism, and each one has personally placed his/her trust in Christ for salvation, we encourage families to be baptized at the same time. It is a wonderful expression of commitment.
Will I have to say anything?
At the beginning of the baptism service, the pastor will briefly explain the meaning of baptism. Following that, the pastor will introduce you and we give each person an opportunity to tell a bit of their story of how they came to Christ, if they wish. You will then wait at the edge of the water for your turn to be baptized. The pastor will briefly lower you just under the water, and then you will leave the water, dry off, and watch with others. There may be others baptized with you. We are so happy that you desire to follow the Lord's example in baptism.
Can I have a private baptism?
Yes, just contact Pam (ext 1210) in the church office.