Baptism

Baptism is a tremendous celebration of what Jesus has done to transform a life! It is not a ritual or formality, but an outward sign of what God has graciously done on the inside. 

Five Questions to Ask with Biblical Answers:

Why Baptize? First, it is a clear command of Jesus, and if for no other reason, that would be enough (Matthew 28:19-20). Secondly, in baptism, we remember how God delivered the nation of Israel from slavery. How did he do this? He brought them through the waters of the Red Sea. Baptism is similar in that we are symbolically moving from slavery to freedom through the waters. Baptism is also acting out of the gospel. If you could summarize the gospel into a demonstration, baptism would perfectly communicate the gospel in action. It is a symbolic dying to sin (with Christ in his death) and being born again to righteousness (with Christ in his resurrection).

When should I be Baptized? As soon as possible. We see no scriptural merit for a class or process before someone is baptized. We never need man’s permission to do what God has already commanded us to do. (Acts 8:36-38)

Where should I be Baptized? Anywhere there is enough water (Mark 1:9-11). The location of your baptism is not as important as the message it conveys. Baptism should be a proclamation to friends and family that you are with Christ and a new family of believers.

Who should be Baptized? Anyone who believes in and follows Jesus (Acts 10:47-48).

How should I be Baptized? We practice baptism by immersion (Mark 1:9-11). Though Jesus was not baptized for his sin (he never committed sin), he did set our example. Jesus was baptized by immersion. Because of the gospel demonstration, we believe that baptism should be practiced by full immersion into water.