BAPTISM
Baptism is a visual and symbolic demonstration of a person’s union with Christ in the likeness of His death and resurrection. Going under the water signifies that a person’s former way of life has been put to death and depicts a release from the mastery of sin. Coming up out of the water signifies the newness of one’s life in union with the Risen Jesus and the eager anticipation of the renewal of all things when Jesus returns.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
(Click for answers)
WHAT DOES BAPTISM MEAN?
The Bible presents baptism as an outward sign of faith in Jesus Christ alone for salvation. Christian baptism is an act of obedience to the command of Jesus, declaring the believer’s faith in and identification with their crucified, buried, and risen Savior. Baptism is a visible sermon of the gospel of Jesus Christ, identifying the Christian with his death, burial, and resurrection (Matt. 28:19–20; Rom. 6:1–11; 1 Cor. 12:13; Col. 2:12).
HOW IS SOMEONE BAPTIZED?
The Greek word used for baptism in the New Testament, baptizo, means “to plunge, dip, or immerse in water.” For example, in the secular ancient Greek, this word was used to explain things such as the sinking of a ship that had been submerged in water. In baptism, the believer is immersed beneath the water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. We baptize Christians in the same way as Jesus: immersed in water and then brought up out of the water (Mark 1:10; Acts 8:34–39).
WHO SHOULD BE BAPTIZED?
The New Testament consistently demonstrates that those who are baptized are people who have put their trust in Jesus and turned from sin. John the Baptizer called people to repentance before they were baptized (Mark 1:4; Luke 3:3). Baptism is reserved solely for those who have received Jesus as their Lord and Savior. In addition, Jesus commanded that all Christians should be baptized (Matt. 28:19). His apostles also commanded that all Christians be baptized (Acts 2:38).
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?
During the service you will be asked to share briefly how the Gospel has changed you. A targeted question will be provided to help you in preparation.
During the baptism you will be asked the following questions (brief answers are provided in italics, but you can answer in your own words): Who is Jesus Christ? Jesus is the only Son of God and my Savior and Lord. What did Jesus do? Jesus lived the life I should have lived, died the death I deserved, and was raised from the dead to give me new life. Why are you being baptized? Baptism is a declaration that I am turning from my sin and trusting wholly in Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, and receiving the free gift of salvation.
We’ll then baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. You’ll sit in the tank, hands across your chest, and plug your nose while we lean you back, submerging you, and bringing you back up in joyful celebration!
WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
We suggest wearing dark colored shorts and T-shirt (ladies wear a swimsuit underneath). Bring a change of clothes, towel, sandals, and a bag for your wet cloths. Invite family and friends to witness the joyous occasion!
Please contact our office if you have any questions or want more information.