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.

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?

The Baptism of Christ Alessandro Algardi (1598 Bologna, 1654 Rome)

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.

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