BAPTISM
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What is Baptism?
Baptism is a significant and sacred practice in the Christian faith. It symbolizes a person’s public declaration of their faith in Jesus Christ and their commitment to follow Him. Baptism is an outward sign of the inward change that occurs when someone accepts Jesus as Lord and Savior.
In the New Testament, Jesus Himself was baptized, setting an example for His followers. He commanded His disciples to baptize others in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19), and the early church continued this practice throughout the book of Acts. Baptism is not just a religious ritual; it’s an important part of the believer’s spiritual journey.
Why Do We Practice Baptism?
Obedience to Jesus’ Command
Jesus instructed His followers to be baptized as an act of obedience and as a sign of their new life in Him. Baptism is an important step in publicly declaring one’s faith, symbolizing the believer’s identification with Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:4).
Symbol of New Life
When a person is baptized, they are symbolically identifying with Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection. Just as Jesus rose from the dead, baptism represents the believer’s new life in Christ—leaving behind the old self and rising to walk in newness of life (2 Corinthians 5:17).
A Public Declaration
Baptism is a way to publicly declare to the world that you are now a follower of Christ. It is an opportunity for the church community to celebrate the new life of a believer and to witness the transforming power of God. In the early church, baptism was a public declaration of one’s faith, and it continues to be an important witness to others today.
A Sign of God’s Grace
Baptism is a gift of grace. It is not a means of earning salvation but a way to respond to God’s grace and love. Through baptism, believers are assured of God’s promises of forgiveness and eternal life through Jesus Christ.
How is Baptism Practiced?
At Anchor Church, we practice believer’s baptism by immersion, following the example set by Jesus and the early church. This means that the person being baptized is fully submerged in water, symbolizing the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.
Baptism is offered to individuals who have made a personal decision to trust in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. We encourage those who wish to be baptized to attend a baptism class or meeting, where we will explain the meaning of baptism and answer any questions.
Who Can Be Baptised?
Baptism is for anyone who has made a personal decision to follow Jesus Christ. It is not a ritual for infants or young children, but for those who can understand the decision they are making and who have accepted Christ into their lives. If you have not been baptized yet and wish to take this important step of faith, we encourage you to speak with one of our pastors.
Next Steps
If you are ready to be baptized, we would love to celebrate this next step in your faith journey with you! Please contact our church office or speak to one of our pastors to learn more about upcoming baptism services or to sign up for a baptism class.