Baptism is the first step of obedience you take as a new follower of Jesus Christ. It is an outward demonstration of the inner transformation that takes place when we place our faith in Jesus. Below are some common questions and answers about the subject of baptism. If you have any more questions or you’d like to schedule your baptism please give us a call or send us an email.
Why should I be baptized?
A. To follow the example of Christ.
“At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan.” (Mark 1:9)
B. Because Christ commanded it.
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:19-20)
C. It demonstrates I really am a believer.
“We know we have come to know Him, if we obey His commands.” (1 John 2:3)
What is the meaning of baptism?
A. It illustrates the death, burial and resurrection of Christ.
“...having been buried with him in baptism and raised with him through your faith in the power of God, who raised him from the dead.” (Colossians 2:12)
B. It identifies you as a follower of Jesus Christ.
“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”
(Romans 6:4)
C. It does not make you a Christian.
Only your faith in Christ does that.
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God...” (Ephesians 2:8)
D. It does not “wash all of our sins away.”
When should I be baptized?
As close to the time of your salvation as possible.
“Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.” (Acts 2:41)
If it has been a long time since you became a Christian, there is still no better time than as soon as possible.
Why should I be baptized by immersion?
A. Because Jesus was baptized that way.
“As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water...” (Matthew 3:16)
B. Every baptism in the Bible is by immersion.
C. The word “baptize” means “to dip.”
D. It best symbolizes burial and resurrection.