Baptism

Why should I be baptized?

TO FOLLOW THE EXAMPLE OF JESUS

“At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan.” - Mark 1:9

TO RESPOND TO JESUS’ COMMAND

“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.’” - Matthew 28:18-20

TO DEMONSTRATE I KNOW AND ACCEPT JESUS

“We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands.” - 1 John 2:3

Who should be baptized?

EVERY PERSON WHO BELIEVES IN JESUS CHRIST

“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” - John 1:12

At Crossings, we encourage children to attend Next Steps for Kids, a class to teach children what it means to be a Christian, prepare them for baptism and communion, and help them build a personal relationship with Jesus.

Baptism talked about in the Bible was only for those who believed. The purpose is to publicly confess your personal commitment to Christ. Therefore, infants are not proper candidates for baptism.

What is the meaning of baptism?

IT’S A SYMBOL OF JESUS’ DEATH AND RESURRECTION

“Having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead.” - Colossians 2:12

IT’S A SYMBOL OF MY NEW LIFE AS A FOLLOWER

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” - 2 Corinthians 5:17

Baptism is an OUTWARD sign of an INWARD change. It does not make you a believer; it shows that you ALREADY believe.

It is not a sign or requirement of church membership.

Why be baptized by immersion?

JESUS WAS BAPTIZED THAT WAY

“As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water.” - Matthew 3:16

EVERY BAPTISM IN THE NEW TESTAMENT WAS BY IMMERSION

“Now John also was baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because there was plenty of water, and people were coming and being baptized.” - John 3:23