WHY BE BAPTIZED?
- Because you want to follow Christ’s example. “At that time Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river.” Mark 1:9
- Because Christ commanded it. “Jesus said, `Go then, to all people everywhere and make them my disciples, baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and then teach them to obey everything I have commanded you..’” Matthew 28:19-20
- Because it shows you are a believer. “…many of the Corinthians who heard him believed and were baptized.” Acts 18:8
- Because obeying Christ’s command shows you know Him. “We know that we have come to know Him, if we obey His commands.” 1 John 2:3
WHAT IS THE MEANING OF BAPTISM?
- It is a symbol of Christ’s burial and resurrection. “Christ died for our sins…he was buried… and he rose again.” 1 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
- It is a symbol of your 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!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 “By our baptism then we were buried with Him and shared His death, in order that just as Christ was raised from the dead also we might live a new life!” Romans 6:4
WHAT BAPTISM IS NOT
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- Baptism does not make you a believer, it shows that you already are 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 the commitment you made in your heart. “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith & it is the gift of God not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8, 9
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. However, it is important to remember that baptism is a personal statement of faith, not a family or group tradition. It is usually not wise to delay your baptism while waiting on others to join you. This puts an undue pressure on them, and delays your obedience.
WILL I HAVE TO SAY ANYTHING?
No! At the beginning of the baptism part of the service, the pastor will briefly explain the meaning of baptism. Following that, the pastor will introduce you. You will then enter the water to be baptized by briefly lowering you just under the water. After your baptism you will leave the water, dry off, and watch with others. We are so happy that you desire to follow the Lord’s example in baptism. There will be many others baptized with you.
WHAT DO I WEAR?
For modesty, please wear a dark-colored shirt as well as casual shorts or pants and shoes that can get wet. (We don’t recommend going barefoot for safety reasons.) Bring a large towel to help you get warm after your baptism. The water will be cold.
CAN I INVITE FRIENDS AND FAMILY TO MY BAPTISM?
Absolutely! We would love to have your friends and family there to celebrate with you.
