Is baptism just another church ceremony? Is it a "free pass" into Heaven? When should we be baptized? Below are some frequently asked questions about this ordinance.
If you do not see your question here, feel free to use the Ask a Pastor form, and we will provide a Biblically sound answer to you.
Why should I be baptized?
Because you want to follow Christ's example: "At that time Jesus come from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river." - Mark 1:9
Because Christ commanded 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 shows you are a believer: “... many of the Corinthians who heard him believed and were baptized.” - Acts 18:8
Because obeying Christ's command shows you know Him: "We know that we have come to know Him, if we obey His commands.” - 1 John 2:3
It is a symbol of Christ's burial and resurrection: "Christ died for our sins... he was buried ... and rose again. " - 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
"For when you were baptized, you were also raised with Christ.” - Colossians 2:12
It is also a symbol of your 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 shored His death, in order that just as Christ was raised from the dead also we might live a new life!" - Romans 6:4
Baptism does not make you a believer; it shows that you already are one! 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, have made in your heart. "For it is by grace you hove been saved, through faith... it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boost.” - Ephesians 2:8-9
IMMERSION VS. SPRINKLING
We believe Jesus was baptized by immersion in water. "As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water.” - Matthew 3:16
Every baptism in the Bible appears to be by immersion under water. Many Christians hold, nevertheless, to different modes of baptism (i.e. sprinkling, pouring, or immersion).
THE BELIEVER'S BAPTISM
As a church, our elders have decided to accept believer's baptism regardless of the mode. In other words, the bottom line on baptism is baptism after a person has committed his or her life to Christ. As a church, however, we will practice baptism by immersion. "...then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water...” - Acts 8:38-39
A CASE FOR IMMERSION
The Greek word “baptizo" literally means, "to immerse or dip under water." It is the best way to picture a burial and resurrection. The founders of denominations agree: “I would have those who are to be baptized to be entirely immersed, as the Word imports and the mystery signifies." - Martin Luther
"The word 'baptize' signifies 'to immerse.' It is certain that immersion was the practice of the ancient church.” - John Calvin
"Buried with Him alluding to baptizing by immersion according to the custom of the first church.” - John Wesley
As soon as you have believed! You shouldn't delay. "Those who believed... were baptized... that day.” - Acts 2:41-47
“Then Philip began with the Scripture and told him the Good News about Jesus. As they traveled along the road, they come to some water, and the eunuch 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 eunuch answered, I believe that Jesus Christ is 'the Son of God.' Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him.” - Acts 8:35-39 (paraphrase)
There is no reason to delay. As soon as a person decides to believe in Christ, he/she can and should be baptized.
Our church recommends you be baptized again if you have not been baptized since you become a believer. It doesn't devalue a prior experience but simply reflects your desire to be baptized as an outward symbol of your new life in Christ.
Every Pulpit Rock Church member has been baptized since he/she trusted Christ.
Yes! If each family member 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.
No. At the beginning of the baptism service, the pastor or person performing the baptism will briefly explain the meaning of baptism. You will wait at the edge of the water for your turn to be baptized. The pastor will introduce you, briefly lower you just under the water and then you will leave the water, dry off and watch with the others.
If you wish to give a short testimony, you are welcome to do so. Simply speak to the pastor or baptism coordinator prior to the weekend you will be baptized.
We hold baptism ceremonies during weekend church services quarterly. Keep an eye on the bulletin for upcoming dates or contact Jack Rants, Care Pastor, at 719-598-6767 x. 120.
