|
Baptism is an important step Jesus asks every believer to take. If you are a follower of Christ and you have not been baptized yet, we encourage you to find out more.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the meaning of baptism?
Baptism is a way for believers to identify with Christ's death, burial and resurrection, illustrating our new lives as followers of Jesus. Baptism doesn't make you a believer; it shows that you already believe. Baptism is a way of showing on the outside what change has already occurred in your heart.
Christ died for our sins... He was buried... and He rose again. I Corinthians 15:3-4
For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ.. Colossians 2:12
When someone becomes a Christian he becomes a brand new person inside. The old life has passed away and a new life has begun! 2 Corinthians 5:17
By our baptism then, we were buried with Him and shared His death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead... so also we may live a new life! Romans 6:4
Why Should I be Baptized?
To follow the example set by Jesus.
At that time, Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river. Mark 1:9
Because Christ commands it.
Jesus said, "Go then, to all people everywhere and make them my disciples, baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and then teach them to obey everything I have commanded you. Matthew 28:19-20
Because it demonstrates that I really am a believer.
...many of the people who heard Him believed and were baptized. Acts 18:8
We know that we have come to know Him, if we obey His commands. I John 2:3
Why be Baptized by Immersion?
Because Jesus was baptized that way.
As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water. Matthew 3:16
Because every baptism in the Bible was by immersion.
...then both Philip and the man went down into the water and Phiip baptized him. Acts 8:38-39
Because the word "baptize" means to dip under water (in Greek).
Who Should be Baptized?
Every person who has believed in Christ
Those who believed and accepted His message were baptized... Acts 2:41
Those who are old enough to believe and understand
We believe it is important for one being baptized to be a believer in Jesus and to understand the purpose of baptism. For this reason, we are careful to wait to baptize children until they are old enough to have a personal faith in Jesus and to comprehend why they are being baptized. Some churches practice a "baptism of confirmation" for children, a ceremony intended to be a covenant between the parents and God on behalf of the child. This custom began about 300 years after the Bible was completed. This is different from the baptism talked about in the Bible, which was only for those old enough to believe.
The purpose of baptism, as shown in the Bible, is for believers to publically demonstrate their commitment to follow Christ. At ERBC, it is a requirement of membership that every member be baptized the way Jesus demonstrated, even though many of us were "confirmed" as children.
When should I be baptized?
As soon as you believe
There is no reason to delay. As soon as you have decided to receive Christ into your life, you can and should be baptized. If you wait until you are "perfect", youŽll never feel "good enough"!
Those who believed...were baptized...that day! Acts 2:41
Then Philip began with the scripture and told him the Good News about Jesus. As they traveled along the road, they came to some water, and the man said, "Look, here is water! Why shouldnŽt I be baptized right now?" Philip said, "If you believe with all your heart, you may." The man answered, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." So they went down into the water and Philip baptized him." Acts 8:35-38
Can my family be baptized together?
We encourage families to be baptized at the same time, if each family member has personally placed his/her trust in Christ and each understands fully the meaning of baptism. (Young children who wish to be baptized are asked to meet with our Director of Children's Ministry for a pre-baptism conversation).
However, it is important to remember that baptism is a personal statement of faith, not a family tradition. It is not wise to delay your baptism while waiting on other family members to accept Christ, particularly children. This puts undue pressure on them, and delays your obedience.
What happens when I'm baptized?
Should I invite people to see me baptized? Yes, we encourage you to invite all your relatives and friends to attend your baptism.
What should I bring? Wear modest clothes that you can get wet. Bring a change of clothes, a towel, a plastic bag for your wet clothes, and a hairdryer (optional). We provide changing rooms.
Will I have to say anything? Yes, if you are willing, but not necessarily.
What happens when it's my turn to be baptized? Pastor Rick will call you down into the water. He will then ask you 2 questions: "Do you know the Lord Jesus as your personal Savior?" and "Do you promise, with God's help, to do your best to continue to follow and obey Him?" You may respond by simply saying "Yes" or "I will." Pastor Rick will then briefly lower you just under the water and then bring you back up. Then you can leave the pool, dry off, and return to the worship service.
Following the baptism, a certificate will be mailed to you.
If I want to be baptized, what should I do next?
Contact Pastor Rick at the church to talk more about baptism and make arrangements.
|
