Baptism, what is it?
Baptism is a powerful symbolic act. It’s a one-time declaration of a lifetime commitment to walk with God.
The word “baptism” comes from a Greek word which means “to dip, dye, or plunge.” We go under the water to symbolize the end of our old lives and come up in celebration of new life in Christ. Jesus conquered death and sin by dying on the cross and rising again. Our baptism symbolizes the fact that we have died to our old sinful nature and are resurrected into new life. In baptism, we publicly declare that we’ve decided to follow Jesus.
Baptism is a visual testimony of our spiritual birth. It is a pledge and promise to always live our lives for Jesus (Romans 6:4; 2 Corinthians 5:17; John 3:4-6).
Baptism shows we are followers of Jesus. It symbolizes the salvation that you already have received (1 Peter 3:21; Matthew 28:19,20).
It shows that we have chosen to serve God, not self (Acts 2:38; Romans 6:3, 4,11-14).
It is a symbol that our sins have been washed away (Psalm 51:7; Romans 6:3,6).
What exactly does baptism do?
To be honest, that’s not really the right question. A wedding ring doesn’t make you married, and getting dunked under water doesn’t save you; it doesn’t make you a Christian. It’s a symbolic act—a potent gesture.
Baptism doesn’t save us; our faith saves us. The Bible says, “. . . it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). Baptism comes after faith as a powerful public declaration.
JESUS CHANGES EVERYTHING
Baptism is an outward expression of an inner change!
Why do I need to be baptized?
Acts 2:38 says “Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.“
We as believers have a clear call to action laid out in scripture, and is an outer reflection of the inner change that was made when you asked Jesus to come into your life. Baptism is a practice established and affirmed by Jesus, and serves as a marker for your entrance into the community of believers.
What is going to happen?
You will be brought into the baptism pool, asked your name and confirm that you have accepted Christ and intend to follow Him for the rest of your life. Then in following those questions, our pastor will ask you to hold your nose and then immerse your entire body in water, signifying death to your old life, and bring you up signifying you’re being brought back to a new life in Christ.
What should I wear?
Dark clothing. We will provide you with a towel and a shirt to be baptized in. Also bring a change of clothes with to change into following your baptism celebration.
Who should see my baptism?
Everybody that you know. This is a moment to share with family, friends, and co-workers. Sharing this experience will help affirm your decision, and may also help bring somebody close to you farther along in their faith journey.
Register
If you would like to be baptized, please fill out the form below and we will be in contact.