What is Water Baptism?
BAPTIZE (bap tiz) =
TO IMMERSE OR TO DIP
Water baptism is a very meaningful act of worship in the life of a believer. It is a statement of your faith in Jesus. Faith in Christ saves us and water baptism publicly announces our commitment to Jesus Christ. When you are baptized in water, you are giving an outward sign of your inward change. It’s a moment to declare that you are a part of God’s Family.
4 Things to Know...
1) IT IS A PUBLIC CONFESSION OF ALLEGIANCE TO CHRIST.
When you are baptized in water, you are expressing the sincerity of your faith in Jesus Christ. It is a public announcement of the change Jesus brought into your life the moment you repented of your sins and received His forgiveness. A public statement of your faith is essential to building a strong, healthy Christian life.
Jesus, Matthew 10:32-33
“Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven.”
2) IT IS AN ACT OF OBEDIENCE TO THE COMMAND OF CHRIST.
Jesus commands all of His disciples to be baptized in water.
Jesus, Matthew 28:18-20
“And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.
We are instructed to immerse people into the reality of The Father, The Son and The Spirit.
3) IT IS A POINT OF IDENTIFICATION WITH THE DEATH, BURIAL & RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST.
Water Baptism is more than a ceremony or ritual. It is a supernatural turning point. This act is full of symbolism and spiritual meaning.
Romans 6:4
“Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”
The water symbolizes the burial ground for our old way of life. This baptism is kind of like a funeral for your old life and a celebration of your new life. As we are raised out of the water, we are signifying that our new life in Christ has begun (New Birth/Born-Again). This landmark experience will give you much needed strength in your walk with God.
Dead to sin, Alive to Christ!
4) YOU ARE FOLLOWING THE EXAMPLE OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST.
Matthew 3:13-17, gives us the story of Jesus’ water baptism experience. As you read this account, pay close attention to the supernatural events that took place.
A) Heaven was opened to Him
B) He saw the Spirit of God
C) The Spirit rested on Him
D) The Father spoke & affirmed Him
As you act in simple obedience to the commands of Christ, we are believing God to do these supernatural things in your life and strengthen your faith.
Common Questions
1) What about “sprinkling”? (a form of baptism practiced by some)
Scripture is very clear about immersion in water being the common Biblical way. While the method is important, we must remember that the most important factor is whether or not the person has received Jesus as their Savior. Whenever possible, we practice water baptism by immersion into water.
2) What should I do if I was baptized as an infant or small child?
Acts 2:38 says, “repent… and be baptized”. Baptism is to follow true repentance. Since it is impossible for infants & most small children to understand the meaning of true repentance & salvation, we are open to baptizing you as an adult. Many find this to be very fulfilling in their Christian life.
3) Now that I’ve re-dedicated my life to Christ, should I be baptized again?
When a person re-dedicates their life to Christ, sometimes a fresh water baptism experienced is desired. This does not necessarily negate the former experience of Salvation, but it does signify a new beginning. We are open to people being water baptized when God brings an incredible change in their life.
If you have other questions, please feel free to ask.
Preparing for Your Baptism
Wear clothes that cannot been seen through when wet. Please no light colored T-shirts. Shorts are permissible. Bring a change of clothes, a towel and anything else you will need to get dressed.
Be sure to let family members & friends know about your Baptism. They may want to attend.
You may have someone take pictures and video if you would like.
Remember, this is a holy time in your life. Do whatever you need to do spiritually to prepare yourself for your big day!
Be sure and celebrate your Water Baptism. You may want to have a dinner with family or friends or do something you enjoy to celebrate this important time. Also, be sure and mark the day by writing it in the front of your Bible or in your calendar. This will help you remember to celebrate this day in the years to come. Some people celebrate their Spiritual Birthday on a yearly basis.
Welcome to the Family!
If we can be of any help, please reach out to us. PleasantGroveCMC@gmail.com
Get Baptized!
If you are interested in getting baptized at The Grove, you can sign up using the form below or you can contact Pastor Ron. Grace & Peace!