Going Public
It's Time to Go Public!
Because Jesus died for us on the cross, not only do we find forgiveness for our sins, but we begin a lifetime journey of following Christ.
So, what is a great next step for you?
When you read the Book of Acts, which is the history book of the first few years of the gospel (the good news of what Jesus had done spreading following the resurrection of Jesus), you’ll find that a very clear NEXT STEP for new Christians to take is water baptism.
1. Why Should I Be Baptized?
a. To Follow Jesus’ Example:
To understand the reason for being water baptized, it is important to consider what the Bible says about it carefully... Jesus himself was baptized. He was not a sinner, yet he humbled himself in obedience to identify with us and gave us a clear example to follow.
See: Mark 1:9
b. An Act of Obedience:
Water baptism is an act of faith and obedience to the commands of Christ.
See: Matthew 28:19-20
c. A Public Declaration:
Baptism declares that you are a follower of Jesus Christ. It is a public confession of your faith in Jesus Christ. Baptism does not make you a believer; it shows that you already are one! Baptism does not "save" you; only your faith in Christ does that.
2. What is the Significance of Baptism?
a. A Move from Death to Life:
Baptism is a symbol of Christ’s burial and resurrection. Our entrance into the water during baptism identifies us with Christ’s death on the cross, His burial in the tomb, and His resurrection from the dead.
See: Colossians 2:12-14
b. A New Life:
It is a symbol of your new life as a Christian. We bury the "old life" and rise to walk in a "new life." Baptism is like a wedding ring. The ring doesn’t make a couple married; the ring is a symbol to others of the promise and covenant that they made in their heart to each other. Baptism is a demonstration, before God and man, of the commitment and covenant a person has made with Christ.
See: Romans 6:4
3. How Should I Be Baptized?
The model we see in the New Testament is by being immersed in water. The word “baptize” comes from the Greek word “baptize” which means “to immerse or dip under water."
See: Matthew 3:16; Acts 8:38,39
5. When Are We to Be Baptized?
Believers in the New Testament were baptized the same day. As soon as a person decides to believe in Christ, he can be, and is encouraged to be baptized.
See: Acts 2:41 ; Acts 8:35-39
To take your next step, click the link below!
Here you can register for our next baptism service. All the information you need to keep moving forward in your spiritual journey will be provided in the link. We are excited to celebrate your baptism with you!
