BAPTISM
SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICE 10:30AM
BAPTISM INFORMATION
Baptism is an outward expression of what you have already decided in your heart. If you are ready to make that public declaration, then get started by making plans to attend our next baptism service at RockPoint. Complete an online Connect Card, and check, Interested in Baptism. A church leader will reach out to you to schedule your baptism.
Baptism Sundays are the 3rd Sunday of Every other Month from February-December
WHAT IS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF BAPTISM?
Water baptism is a public declaration of three very important things:
1. You are a follower of Jesus Christ.
“Those who accepted his message were baptized.” —Acts 2:41
2. You are beginning a changed life in Christ.
“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the
Father, we too may live a new life.” —Romans 6:4
3. You are part of a new family.
“So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.”
—Galatians 3:26–27
WHY SHOULD I BE BAPTIZED?
Before Jesus began his ministry, he was baptized by John the Baptist (Matthew 3:13-17). If baptism was important enough for Jesus to model, then we should follow him in the practice. Also, before Jesus ascended to heaven, he emphasized baptism as one of the key components in making disciples. He commissioned his followers to go and make disciples of all nations, to baptize those disciples, and to teach them everything he commanded them.
Also, in Romans 6:3-8, the apostle Paul relates how baptism is an important symbol. Baptism symbolizes our union with Christ. In baptism we symbolically participate in Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection.
HOW DO WE BAPTIZE?
Because we believe that baptism by immersion best illustrates the symbolism Paul describes in Romans 6 and is generally agreed to be the only
mode described in the New Testament (Matthew 3:16; Acts 8:38-39), we exclusively practice baptism by immersion. The word baptism itself, as used during the New Testament period, literally means to be dipped or immersed in water (see “Baptizo” in the New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology).
WHEN SHOULD I BE BAPTIZED?
In the New Testament, faith is often tied very closely to baptism. When someone comes to faith, the next scene is usually their baptism (Acts 8:34-39; 10:47-48; 16:29-34). Under normal circumstances, baptism should soon follow after faith in Christ. Most churches require one to be baptized in order to be considered for membership. This is no different at First Christian. We believe that baptism should be done by immersion for those who are able to profess personal faith in Christ. However, those baptized by other methods may become members of First Christian.
DO I HAVE TO BE BAPTIZED TO BE SAVED?
While faith and baptism are tied very closely together, there is nothing about the water itself or the act of baptism that brings salvation. The work of Christ is what saves us, and we accept that work in faith and repentance. We are able to follow through with that commitment of repentance by the help of the Holy Spirit. We believe that when a person comes to faith in Christ the first act of discipleship should be baptism.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I AM BAPTIZED?
Before baptism, you will be asked a couple of questions while you are in the water in front of those present. They will be similar to this:
• Is Jesus the leader and forgiver of your life?
• Will you choose to walk with Him from this day forward?
With a response of "Yes" to both questions, the pastor in charge will respond with similar words like this:
• I baptize you in the name of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit
• You will then be fully immersed into the water!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Have questions? We have the answers!
I have already been baptized. Should I be baptized again?
Your baptism should have signified you becoming a follower of Jesus, beginning a changed life, and uniting with a new family. If your baptism did not reflect this change of life, then you should be baptized again.
Will I get a certificate of baptism?
Yes. After satisfying the oral and formal requirements of the Baptismal process.
Am I allowed to have baptismal name upon being baptized?
Although there is no scriptural precedence for baptismal names; however, in cases where a believer has had a name that does not glorify God, s/he may choose to adopt a name that befits his/her faith in the Lord.
Can I invite my family members and friends to my baptismal ceremony?
Yes. We encourage you to invite all your relatives and friends to attend your Baptismal ceremony.
After baptism, what next should I expect to do as a Christian?
Both before and after Baptism, you will need to keep your relationship with the Lord sacred. Let the Holy Spirit continue to guide you. Study of the Word of God and seek to be BAPTISED IN THE HOLY SPIRIT. If you have not attended Growth Track, we encourage you to do so, as well as join a Life Group.
What if I sin after baptism?
Baptism and/or God’s grace is not a license for sin or immoral living. Because the seed of God is in you, you will not ‘commit’ sin. But if you sin after baptism, we have an Advocate with the Father – Jesus Christ, our Savior.
Is there any order in salvation, water baptism and holy spirit baptism?
In a sense, yes. And in either of the Water and Holy Spirit baptisms, Salvation is precedent and necessary. After Salvation, a person may receive either of the two in any order depending on the circumstances. (refer to Acts 8:36-38 & 10:44-48).
What will be the state of a believer who does not have the opportunity of baptism before death?
S/he could still make heaven if s/he said the sinner’s prayer and accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior. (see Luke 23:39-43).
What should I wear at baptism?
Ladies should wear appropriate outfit such as one-piece swimsuit, underneath slacks or shorts, and a white T-shirt. Men may wear shorts or swimming trunks and White T-shirts. Remember to bring along change of clothes, a towel, and a plastic bag to keep your wet clothing.
Will I have to say anything at baptism?
No. At the beginning of the service, Pastor will briefly explain the ceremony and what, if anything is expected of you. You will wait at the edge of the pool for your turn to be baptized. Pastor will introduce you, briefly lower you just under the water, and then you can leave the pool, dry off, and watch the others.