Baptism is a public declaration of one's commitment to follow Christ, grounded in the belief in His death and resurrection. It also signifies the renunciation of any previous belief systems that promised salvation.
It is one of the two ordinances practiced by the New Testament church, the other being Communion.
Baptism is symbolic, representing the forgiveness of sin, resurrection to eternal life, and unity with Jesus Christ. It is often likened to the wedding ring of the Christian faith (Romans 6:1-10).
Baptism is not regenerative; it does not impart any special element of salvation. Instead, it brings the joy of obeying Jesus' command to be baptized (Matthew 28:19).
Any believer can baptize another believer; it is not a rite that requires trained leaders or licensed professionals.
The process of baptism is simple. Ask the person, "Are you trusting in the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins and the gift of eternal life?" Then immerse them in water, saying, "Based on your declaration of faith, I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit." Baptism ceremonies should be stand-alone events, focused solely on the act of baptism and not burdened with prolonged personal testimonies or special offerings.
It is one of the two ordinances practiced by the New Testament church, the other being Communion.
Baptism is symbolic, representing the forgiveness of sin, resurrection to eternal life, and unity with Jesus Christ. It is often likened to the wedding ring of the Christian faith (Romans 6:1-10).
Baptism is not regenerative; it does not impart any special element of salvation. Instead, it brings the joy of obeying Jesus' command to be baptized (Matthew 28:19).
Any believer can baptize another believer; it is not a rite that requires trained leaders or licensed professionals.
The process of baptism is simple. Ask the person, "Are you trusting in the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins and the gift of eternal life?" Then immerse them in water, saying, "Based on your declaration of faith, I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit." Baptism ceremonies should be stand-alone events, focused solely on the act of baptism and not burdened with prolonged personal testimonies or special offerings.
Resources
- Watch What is Baptism? (4:22)
- Watch Is Baptism Necessary for Salvation? (5:12)
- Read: What is the Purpose of Baptism? (Got Questions)