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What is Baptism?
Baptism is a significant moment in the life of a Christian, an act that proclaims
one's relationship with Jesus Christ. This is done by formally identifying with
His death and resurrection through immersion in water and a public statement of
an authentic Christian faith.
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Baptism follows the example of Jesus. Though sinless, Jesus submitted Himself to
be baptized by John so as to serve as a role model for us all (
Matthew 3:13-15). More importantly, baptism is commanded by Jesus (
Matthew 28:19) and by the Apostles, the first leaders of the Christian
church ( Acts 2:38).
Who should be baptized?
Everyone who sincerely wishes to trust and follow Jesus Christ as their Lord and
Savior should be baptized.
Is baptism necessary for salvation?
Baptism is not necessary for salvation. Baptism bears witness to a previous saving
commitment to Jesus Christ. (
1 Peter 3:18-22, Luke 23:43)
Why is baptism done by immersion?
We try to make baptism mirror the examples we find in the Bible. The Greek word
for baptism, baptizo, literally means “plunging” or “immersing.” This practice is
symbolic of identifying one’s self with the death and resurrection of Jesus (
Romans 6:1-7). The most detailed description of baptism in the Bible suggests
this practice ( Acts 8:26-40).
Should infants be baptized?
While we do not wish to devalue other traditions or the heartfelt commitment of
any parents, we believe that there is no biblical precedent or example for baptizing
anyone who is unable to make a profession of authentic Christian faith. Most parents
who desire to have their infants baptized are seeking to promise God that they will
raise their child in His ways and commit their children to His guidance and care.
This commitment is more in line with the practice of child dedication than baptism.
When children arrive at the point in their lives when they can truly affirm that
Jesus Christ is the "forgiver of their sins" and the "leader of their
life," they are ready to be baptized.
How do I know if I am ready for baptism?
Confirm that you have made a commitment to make Jesus the leader and savior of your
life.
To make Jesus the leader and Savior of your life, it means you understand:
- The Design – We are important to God. He created us to live in a harmonious
relationship with Him.
- The Problem – We are separated from God. We have chosen to abandon God and
rebel against His values and authority, which the Bible calls sin. Because of those
decisions that we all have made, we are separated from Him forever.
- The Solution – We need God’s help. God loves us and provided the only way
out of our rebellion. He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, to earth to pay the penalty
for our rebellion by dying on the cross and thus building a bridge for us back to
God.
- The Choice – We must choose. God has made the only solution to our problems
freely available to all who will return to Him. We can end our separation from God
and enter into a restored relationship with Him and experience the blessings of
life with God both in the here and now and after we die. Each of us must decide
whether we will place our trust in the person, life and work of Jesus Christ and
pledge to follow Him forever, thus returning to a right and restored relationship
to God, or not.
If you aren't sure or have questions we would love to talk with you about this.
Please don't hesitate to click on the "I Have A Question" button
below.
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