What is baptism and Why is it so important?
Baptism Sundays are the best Sundays in the life of our church. First, you are participating in an act of obedience that is two thousand years old. You are publicly declaring that you have entered into a relationship with Jesus Christ, and you want to make Him the Lord and Savior of your life. In addition, it is an inspiring day for the church family as they cheer you on, and are reminded themselves of the day they were baptized and the commitment they have made to follow Jesus.
What is believers’ baptism?
The Bible repeatedly describes this pattern: “they believed & were baptized” (Acts 18:8). Notice, they weren’t baptized until they believed (Acts 2:41; 8:12; 16:15, 33; 19:5). In believers’ baptism, we wait until a person trusts in Jesus.
What is baptism by immersion?
The New Testament Greek word for “baptize” literally means to immerse, submerge or place under. Baptizo is also used to describe sunken ships, drowned men or fabric dyed another color.
Why do you baptize by immersion?
Besides honoring its literal meaning and imitating Jesus’ baptism (where He came up out of the water – Mark 1:10), immersion offers an accurate picture. As we lay back, go under and come up out of the water, we reenact Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection for us (Romans 6:3-4).
Is baptism a command or a suggestion?
It’s a command. Even Jesus Himself took this seriously (Matthew 3:13-17; 28:19; Mark 16:16; Acts 2:41). By our obedience, we give witness to His saving work and leadership in our lives.
What if I was baptized as an infant?
It’s no small thing to us, and we bless parents who want their children to live under God’s grace and blessing – but in the Bible, Jesus blessed, but never baptized infants or children (Mark 10:16). This is a big part of why we practice believers’ baptism.
Thanks for taking the first step in learning more about baptism. We hope the preceding information answered some of your questions. If you have any questions, we would be glad to speak with you to further process this important decision. Feel free to contact Pastor Brian at brian@cherryhillsfamily.org or 546-4818.
