Baptism… What is it?
Baptism is an outward expression of an inward decision to put your faith in Jesus. It’s a public declaration of how Jesus changed your life. The power that brought Jesus back to life is the same power Jesus uses to change our lives and that’s worth getting excited about!
“For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized. And with him you were raised to new life because you trusted the mighty power of God, who raised Christ from the dead.”
Colossians 2:12 (NLT)
Why get baptized?
Jesus instructs us to be baptized, set the example by being baptized Himself, and wants us to follow His lead. The act of being baptized itself does not make you a believer, it shows that you already believe and provides an opportunity to share the life-changing work of Jesus in you with your community!
When is the best time to be baptized?
Baptism is your next step if you’ve decided to follow Jesus and commit your life to Him.
“…the people believed Philip’s message of Good News concerning the Kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ. As a result, many men and women were baptized.”
Acts 8:12 (NLT)
As soon as you have decided to receive Christ into your life, you can and should be baptized. Baptism isn’t for perfect people, it’s for people who are committed to making their lives better through the Savior.
What about children?
Each time someone was baptized in the New Testament, they did so following a conscience decision to give their life to Christ. Rather than baptize infants, when a child is born, we often have a dedication service for the family in which parents dedicate themselves to raising their children in a way that will honor God so that their children will have the opportunity to give their lives to Christ at the earliest possible moment.
When an older child makes this commitment, we strongly encourage parents to not only be in the pool with their child, but to participate in that child’s baptism.
Need Help?
If you’re still not sure what your next step is or have questions about baptism, we want to help!