Baptism is an important step for every
believer. If you haven't been baptized, consider
talking to one of our pastors about this important decision
in your life!
For more information or to sign up for our next baptism,
complete this online form.
What
is the Meaning of Baptism?
Featured Article: What
is the Meaning of Baptism?
It illustrates Christ's burial and resurrection.
"Christ died for our sins... He was buried... and
He rose again."
--First 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
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!" --Second 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, only
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
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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
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 baptize means "to immerse or dip under
water".
It best symbolized a burial and resurrection!
The founders of denominations agree:
Martin Luther... "I would have those who are to be
baptized to be entirely immersed, as the work imports and
the mystery signifies."
John Calvin... "The word 'baptize' signifies to
immerse. It is certain that immersion was the practice of
the ancient church."
John Wesley... "Buried with Him, alludes to
baptizing by immersion according to the custom of the first
church."
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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
At The Journey, we wait until our children are
old enough to believe and understand the true meaning of
baptism before we baptize them.
Some churches practice a "baptism of
confirmation" for children. This ceremony is intended
to be a covenant between the parents and God on the behalf
of the child. The parents promise to raise their child in
the faith until the child is old enough to make his own
personal confession of Christ. 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 is to publicly confess your personal commitment to
Christ.
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When
Should I be Baptized?
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. As they traveled along the road, they came to some
water, and the
man said, 'Look, here is water! Why shouldn't 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
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!"
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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.
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What Should I Wear When I'm Baptized?
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.
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Will I Have to Say Anything?
At the beginning of the service, Pastor Nelson or Pastor
Kerrick will briefly explain the meaning of baptism. You
will wait in the water for your turn to be baptized. The
Pastor will introduce you, briefly lower you just under the
water, and then you can leave the water, dry off, and watch
the others. Later you will receive your baptism certificate.
We encourage you to invite all your relatives and friends to
attend your baptism.
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