BAPTISM

What is baptism?

Baptism is an outward sign—a step of obedience—taken by a disciple of Jesus Christ. Baptism itself does not “save” a person. We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ for salvation from sin and spiritual death (Eph. 2: 8-9). It is an illustration of an inner conversion that has already taken place within the heart of a believer.

The word to baptize comes from the Greek meaning “to immerse” (with water). “Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 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.” (Rom. 6: 3-4)

What does baptism signify?

The Holy Scriptures show us five aspects of what baptism illustrates:

• Baptism signifies our union with God through Christ’s death, burial and resurrection (Rom. 6: 3-4).
• Baptism is an act of obedience to Jesus’ instructions for each disciple to be baptized (Matt. 28: 18-19).
• Baptism is a public declaration of our faith in Jesus Christ (Rom. 10: 9-10).
• Baptism identifies us with our spiritual family—the body of Christ (1 Cor. 12: 13).
• Baptism symbolizes Jesus’ cleansing us from sin (Acts 22:16)

Who should be baptized?

Every person who has placed their faith in Jesus Christ, received forgiveness from sin and the gift of eternal life, through trusting in Jesus Christ and his atoning death.

What about infants?

At New Life Fellowship we wait until our children are old enough to make a conscious choice for Jesus Christ. We desire them to understand the meaning of baptism so that they may fully participate in the experience.

We dedicate infants and pray for them to grow into a relationship with Christ.

Should I be re-baptized?

If you have been baptized before making a personal commitment to Christ, we invite you to be baptized as a believer by your own free choice.

What must I do to be Baptized at New Life Fellowship?

• Attend the 2 Baptism Classes where you will learn about baptism and prepare for the baptism event.
• At the 2nd class we will help you prepare a very short video of how you became a follower of Jesus
• Get baptized! =)

What about teenagers and children?

If you are a teenager, speak to our Youth Director, Mike Park.
If you are a child, speak with the Children’s Pastor, Linda Johnson.

What will happen when I get baptized?

• There will be a celebration where you can invite your family and friends.
• You will be in a tank of water that will be waist deep with two adults.
• We will show the video of your testimony
• You will be briefly go underwater and come up. You are baptized!!