Baptism
What Is the Purpose of Water Baptism?
Through water baptism we identify with Jesus Christ and His death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:4). As you are immersed under water, you bury your old, sinful nature, and when you come up out of the water, you experience the new life and resurrection that belong to you through Jesus.
What Is the Significance of Water Baptism?
The significance of baptism is both inward and outward. Outwardly it conveys our allegiance to the Lord Jesus Christ. It is the primary means by which we “go public” with our faith in Jesus. We convey to the church and the world that we have decided to follow Jesus.
At the same time, baptism is more than just an outward act. God performs an inward transformation on our spiritual man and washes us and cleanses of sin (Acts 2:38, Acts 22:16). God cuts way the old, sin-loving nature from our hearts (Colossians 2:11-12). When we come up our of the water, the church celebrates a new life in Christ!
Who Should Be Water Baptized?
Anyone who has committed themselves to Jesus Christ and repented (turned away from) their sins by trusting in the blood of Jesus Christ, should be baptized. While babies may be dedicated to the Lord from birth, baptism is reserved for those who are old enough to make a personal confession of faith in Jesus. Once you have committed yourself to Jesus and repented of your sins, you are ready for water baptism.
Why should I be water baptized?
Jesus was personally baptized as an example of righteousness to us (Matthew 3:15). He commanded us to follow His example (Matthew 28:19-20, Mark 16:16). Baptism is an act of faith and obedience that places us into Christ and His body (Galatians 3:27; Ephesians 4:5). The Apostle Peter shows us that it is a key component of our conversion experience (1 Peter 3:21)
How Should I Be Water Baptized?
Because the Greek word for “baptize” literally means to immerse or dunk, baptism is to be done by immersion in water. Jesus was immersed and the early church practiced baptism by immersion. Water baptism is also to be conducted in the name of the Jesus (Acts 2:38, Acts 10:48, 19:5). This is because it is the name of Jesus that has authority, power, and salvation (Acts 4:12). The New Testament gives no examples of baptism being done in any other form than by immersion in the name of Jesus.
When Should I Get Water Baptized?
Jesus was personally baptized as an example of righteousness to us (Matthew 3:15). He commanded us to follow His example (Matthew 28:19-20, Mark 16:16). Baptism is an act of faith and obedience that places us into Christ and His body (Galatians 3:27; Ephesians 4:5). The Apostle Peter shows us that it is a key component of our conversion experience (1 Peter 3:21)
How Do I Schedule Water Baptism?
You can arrange for water baptism by simply notifying the pastoral staff. They would be more than happy to talk with you. You can also email info@christtab.com or call the church office at 618.428.5600. Our baptismal service schedule is located in the weekly announcements. Children who would like to be baptized must have a parent or guardian’s permission to do so.
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