Water baptism
“For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.”
Romans 4:6
Why get Baptised?
Being baptised with water is a demonstration of our obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ. It is a practical demonstration of a spiritual reality that has already taken place - "having been buried with him in baptism and raised with him through your faith in the power of God, who raised him from the dead." Colossians 2:12
Jesus Himself was baptised with water at the beginning of his ministry (Mark 3:13-15, Luke 3:21), and Jesus commanded us to be baptised with water (Matthew 28:19-20).
Baptism also connects us to the 'body of Christ', His people on Earth. In baptism we are joined with other believers, not just participating in our own spiritual journey - "For we were all baptised by one Spirit into one body." 1 Corinthians 12:12-13
Baptism does not make you a believer; it shows that you already are one - "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast." Ephesians 2:8-9
WHEN TO GET BAPTISED?
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" 2 Corinthians 5:17
Baptism is the outward symbol of an inward heart commitment to follow Jesus. It is lived out on a daily basis. A personal commitment to the Lordship of Jesus Christ is the only requirement for water baptism. When you received the Lord Jesus Christ by faith, you took part in his death, burial and resurrection. In other words, you became alive to God and a child of God (John 1:10 - 12). Water baptism simply signifies what has already taken place in your life (Romans 6: 1-5).
Philip the evangelist baptised the Ethiopian eunuch immediately after he received the gospel and Cornelius and his household were baptised with water after God poured out the Holy Spirit on them (read Acts 8: 26-40 and Acts 10:24-48).
Jesus was baptised with water at the very beginning of his early ministry (Matthew 3: 3-15). It is an act of obedience we should fulfill as soon as time and opportunity permit.
How to Get Baptised
Water baptism in the bible involves total immersion in water (Matthew 3:16, Acts 8: 38-39). A river, stream, bath or any body of water can all be suitable. If you would like to be baptised, or would like to find out more, please contact us on info@believe.church or speak to our Service Host team at the Connect Hub after one of our Sunday Services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be baptised more than once?
Yes. You can be baptised again if you have made a recommitment to following Christ, or if you were Christened and would like to be baptised by full immersion as an adult. Being baptised again doesn't devalue a prior baptism.
Can families be baptised together?
If each family member fully understands the meaning of baptism, and have personally placed their trust in Christ for salvation families can be baptised at the same time. We do not baptise children until they are old enough to understand what baptism means and make their own personal commitment to submit their lives to Jesus Christ.
What should I bring?
Please wear a swimming costume and shorts and a dark coloured T-Shirt to be baptised in. Please also bring a towel and fresh pair of clothes to change into. Invite friends and family to come along and celebrate this significant moment with you, this is an excellent opportunity to share your faith. Come prepared to share your testimony of how you became a Christian.
Before you enter the water you will be asked these questions:
1. Have you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Saviour?
2. Have you repented of your sins?
3. Have you decided to live your life for Jesus?
When you enter the water you will be briefly prayed for then the Pastor will baptise you “In the name of Jesus I baptise you in the name of the Father, of the Son and the Holy Spirit. Acts 10:46-48, Matthew 28:19 and you will be lowered under the water.