Baptism

Is baptism your next step?

What is Baptism?

The Greek word used in the New Testament for “baptism” is “baptizo” which means to dunk, plunge, or immerse. Christian baptism is the immersion of a believer in water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. It is a verbal and visible declaration both to the Church and the watching world of a believer’s dedication to follow Jesus. (Romans 6:4)

Why is Baptism Necessary?

It is an act of obedience symbolizing the believer’s faith in a crucified, buried, and risen Savior, the believer’s death to sin, the burial of the old life, and the resurrection to walk in newness of life in Christ Jesus. It is a testimony to his/her faith in the final resurrection of the dead. (Matthew 28:18-20)

What You Need to Know

Frequently Asked Questions

New Testament or “believer’s baptism” has only one prerequisite–conversion. You must be born again. (John 3:3) You are to be baptized after you have been saved.

No, you should be baptized as soon as possible after you have believed and received. It is very clear (Matthew 28:19) that Jesus told His disciples to baptize others who commit their lives to Him. Being baptized immediately fulfills all that Jesus expected. Have you believed, trusted, and relied upon Jesus with all your heart? Then there is no reason to wait…only excuses.

Usually, infant baptism reflects the best loving intentions of a family; but the child is not old enough to have any decision, acceptance, or trust in the matter. In the Bible, baptism always came after someone had consciously and purposefully made a personal decision to accept and trust Jesus as Savior and Lord. Baptism is a commitment of your will, not the will of someone else.

There is none. The only cleansing power is in the shed blood of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 9:22 & Revelation 1:5). Sins are not like dirt on your body that can be washed away by getting into water. Only by accepting what Jesus has done (1 Peter 3:18) can your sins be blotted out and you be forgiven (cleansed).

Find Out More About Baptism

Please fill out the form below if you are interested in taking the next step toward baptism. You may also contact the Care & Connections Office Administrative Assistant, Shanna Ketchum, at 903-831-6000 with any questions or concerns.