The Baptism Rite
Statement of Belief
We believe that baptism by immersion is an outward symbol of an inward transformation and is a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ.
Matthew 28:19 — Acts 2:38 1)
Additional Information
Let us discuss the beautiful and powerful rite of baptism, which holds immense significance in the life of a believer. Baptism is a sacred act, an outward symbol of an inward transformation, and a public declaration of faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. This powerful ritual serves as a testament to the world that we have chosen to embrace the love, grace, and redemption offered to us through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross.
Our Lord Jesus Himself commanded His disciples to baptize new believers in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19). This commandment highlights the importance of baptism as a central aspect of the Christian faith. Baptism is a powerful means of grace through which we can truly encounter the presence of God in our lives. It signifies our commitment to following Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior and is a vital step on our journey of faith.
The act of baptism by immersion, as practiced by our forefathers and continued today, is a potent symbol of the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. As we are submerged beneath the waters, we are reminded of the death and burial of Christ, and as we rise again, we are reminded of His glorious resurrection (Romans 6:4). In that moment, we publicly identify with the life, death, and resurrection of our Savior, and we proclaim that we have been born anew, cleansed of our sins and granted a new life in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).
The apostle Peter, in his sermon on the day of Pentecost, exhorted the people to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of their sins (Acts 2:38). This call to repentance and baptism signifies the essential nature of this rite for all who would profess faith in Jesus Christ. Baptism is an act of obedience, a response to the gracious invitation of our Lord, and a tangible expression of our trust in His redemptive work on our behalf.
In conclusion, the rite of baptism is a profound and life-altering experience that marks our entrance into the family of God. By submitting ourselves to the waters of baptism, we publicly declare our faith in Jesus Christ and bear witness to the transforming work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Through baptism, we embrace our identity as beloved children of God and as members of the body of Christ. As we continue on our journey of faith, let us always remember the significance of our baptism and the eternal promise of love, grace, and redemption that it represents.