baptism
Baptism is a sacrament commanded by Jesus. It is the outward display of an inward reality, where believers publicly identify with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. We're honored to walk with you as you take this joyful step of obedience.
THe Why?
Baptism represents the forgiveness and cleansing of sin that comes through faith in Jesus Christ. It symbolizes the dying to an old life and being raised to new life in Jesus. Through baptism, we are also publicly proclaiming our faith in the gospel message, and we step forward in community with other believers.
What to expect
You’ll have an opportunity to share your story of how you came to faith in Jesus Christ and the difference He’s made in your life, either through a short live sharing or on video. Our baptisms take place between services, right outside the Auditorium on the turf area, and it is a powerful time of celebration.
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Those who’ve repented of sin and put their faith and trust in Jesus alone for salvation.
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Being baptized shows your identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection (Acts 2:38; Romans 6:3-8; Colossians 2:12). As a follower of Jesus, you are publicly testifying through baptism that Christ died on the cross for your sins, and that you’ve died to your former life of sin against God. Baptism is an outward expression of an inward reality. That is, in baptism we identify by faith, with Christ’s resurrection from the dead and are symbolically raised from death to eternal life through him. Baptism is a public declaration and demonstration of the salvation found in Jesus.
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In short, no, baptism is not necessary for salvation. It is through faith in Jesus that we are saved from sin (Ephesians 2:8-9). The Bible clearly states that purification from sin is not the result of baptism (Acts 15:9; 1 John 1:9). However, we see that baptism is closely related to the act of faith and that they are often expressed as one act (Acts 8:26-39). Baptism is reserved for those who sincerely repent of their sins and place faith in Jesus.
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Absolutely! Baptism celebrates who Jesus is and what he’s done in your life. It’s a great opportunity to show friends and family what your faith in Jesus means to you and for them to celebrate this life changing milestone with you.
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You’ve been baptized. What’s next? Join a Discipleship Group right away. It’s in these groups where you have the opportunity to continue your journey of following Jesus after baptism. Jesus discipled people primarily through small groups.
