Baptism
What is the Meaning of Baptism?
1. It illustrates Christ's burial and resurrection.
"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
2. It illustrates my new life as a Christian.
"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
Baptism doesn’t make you a believer - it shows that you already believe. Baptism does not "save" you, your faith in Christ does that. Baptism is like a wedding ring - it ́s the outward symbol of the commitment you make in your heart.
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith... it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast." --Ephesians 2:8,9
Why Be Baptized by Immersion?
1. Because Jesus was baptized that way.
"As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water." --Matthew 3:16
2. Every baptism in the Bible was by immersion.
(Example) "...then both Philip and the man went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water..." --Acts 8:38-39
The word Baptize means "To dip under water". The Greek word baptizo means "to immerse or dip under water". This form of Baptism best symbolizes a burial and resurrection!
Who and When Should Someone Be Baptized?
1. Every person who has believed in Christ.
"Those who believe and accepted His message were baptized..." --Acts 2:41
"Simon himself believed and was baptized..." --Acts 8:13
"But when they believed Philip as he preached the Good News... and the
name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women." - -Acts 8:12
2. As soon as you have believed.
"Those who believe...were baptized...that day!" --Acts 2:41
"Then Philip began with the scripture and told him the Good News about Jesus. And as they were going along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “See, here is water! What prevents me from being baptized?” And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him.." --Acts 8:35-38
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", you ́ll never feel "good enough”!
At FBC of Independence, we wait until our children are old enough to believe and understand the true meaning of baptism before we baptize them.
What Should I Expect at My Baptism?
What should I wear?
Women should wear shorts and a top or a swimsuit. Men may wear shorts, t-shirts or a swimsuit. Bring a change of clothes, a towel, and a plastic bag for your wet clothes.
Will I have to say anything?
At the beginning of the service, one of the Pastor's will briefly explain the meaning of baptism.
You will wait for your turn to be baptized. The Pastor will introduce you, briefly lower you just under the water then raise you up.
We encourage you to invite all your relatives and friends to attend your baptism.
Can my family and friends be baptized together?
Yes!
If each person understands fully the meaning of baptism, and each one has personally placed his/her trust in Christ for salvation, we encourage families to be baptized at the same time. It is a wonderful expression of commitment.
However, it is important to remember that baptism is a personal statement of faith, not a family or group tradition. It is usually not wise to delay your baptism while waiting on others to join you. This puts an undue pressure on them, and delays your obedience.
