BAPTISM
What is Baptism?
Baptism is a celebration! In the New Testament, baptism is seen as a significant step of obedience for those who follow Jesus (Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 2:38-41). Whether it’s Jesus being baptized at the start of His ministry (Matthew 3:13-17) or His command to baptize believers, baptism is central to the Christian faith.
Baptism is an outward declaration that you have been transformed through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). Immersion in water symbolizes the burial of your old life, and rising from the water represents the new life you have in Christ. In this way, you identify with Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3-5). Baptism is also a way to proclaim your faith publicly—a bold statement saying, "I belong to Jesus!"
Who Should be Baptized & When?
While not mandatory for salvation, every follower of Jesus should desire to be baptized following their decision to trust in Jesus (Acts 2:41; Acts 8:38-39). Baptism should be made early in your faith journey out of the excitement for what Jesus has done, but can be done at any point. Mature faith and advanced knowledge of scripture is not necessary. Faith in Jesus and a desire to follow him is all that is needed!
Why Full Immersion?
We practice full immersion baptism, which means you will be completely covered by water. We use this approach to baptism because it is how Jesus was baptized (Matthew 3:16), it best symbolizes his burial and resurrection, and the word used in the New Testament “baptizo” literally translates to “immerse under water”. We do not consider baptism by other means as inappropriate, but we will baptize a believer who was previously baptized as a child and now wants to make a declaration as an adult.
I Want to be Baptized! What Now?
If you desire to be baptized, there are two easy ways for you to let us know! You can speak to one of our pastors or staff members, or you can visit the find the link to sign up on our website!
There are a few things that we’ll ask you to do in preparation for your baptism. First, we’ll ask you to film a short baptism testimony video about your story of what Jesus has meant to you and why you want to be baptized. After you’ve let us know you want to be baptized, we’ll reach out to you to schedule doing this before the baptism service.