BAPTISM
About Baptism
Baptism is an important step of obedience that shows others we have personally trusted Jesus for our salvation. Jesus was baptized when He was on the earth, and we do this to follow His example. When Christians are baptized, they are submerged under water to identify with the death and burial of Jesus and raised out of the water to identify with His resurrection.
We believe that water baptism is a public declaration of three important things: you are a follower of Jesus Christ, you are beginning a changed life in Christ, and you are part of a new family.
Cristie Horn: A Baptism Testimony
Why and When to Get Baptized
Jesus instructs us to be baptized and set the example by being baptized himself. (Matthew 28:19-20, Mark 1:9)
Obedience to Jesus shows we believe and follow Him. (1 John 2:3)
Because Jesus went public about His love for us, we can go public about our love for Him.
Being baptized shows that we turn away from a life of sin toward Jesus, the only one who can change us. (Acts 2:38-41)
For everyone who decides to follow Jesus, no matter the age, baptism is the next step. Anyone who commits his or her life to following Jesus is ready to be baptized. (Acts 8:12)
Should we Baptize Children?
As parents, we can help point our children to Jesus, but they are the ones to decide if they will commit their lives to Him. (Romans 10:9)
Any instance of baptism follows a person’s decision to trust Jesus for his or her salvation and commitment to follow Him. (Acts 10:47-48)
Jesus gave His time and attention to children despite it being unpopular. He also instructed adult religious leaders and His disciples to model their faith after children, so He clearly believes children can have authentic faith. (Matthew 11:25, Luke 18:15-16)
How do we decide if our child is ready to be baptized?
- Has he/she made a decision to trust Jesus for salvation? (This is essential.)
- Can they talk about why they want to follow Jesus?
- Have they expressed a desire to be baptized more than just on a day they observed one?
- Have you prayed about it? What sense do you get from the Holy Spirit?
- Ask yourself if your own fears of what others would think are interfering with your decision.
- Once you have helped them understand that baptism is a way to show everyone they plan to follow God, do they understand the need to not hide their faith?
Baptism of children requires a meeting between the child, parent, and pastor. This is for all kids/students up through the 8th grade.
Alex & Sam on Baptism
I'm Ready to Be Baptized
After attending a service and discussing the process with a pastor, we will walk you through the steps for writing out your faith story. Once we receive your story we will schedule your baptism. Invite your family and friends, once a date is established to help you celebrate this step of new life.
Attend a Service
Join us at The River to experience a Sunday morning service, and meet some of the staff who will be helping you on the big day.
Invite Family & Friends
Since we are celebrating, and declaring to everyone our new life in Christ we encourage you to invite friends and family to join in on the special event.
On The Day...
Don’t worry about what to bring. Our staff will have you well prepared with the entire process, and you will even get to take home an “I Jumped In!” t-shirt to keep.