Baptism is a powerful symbol of the salvation that has already taken place in your life! We like to say that Baptism is an outward expression of an inward change. It symbolizes what takes place inwardly when a person places their faith and hope in Jesus and begin to follow Him.
Because Jesus instructed us to be baptized, baptism is also an act of obedience. While it is not necessary for salvation, it demonstrates our belief in Him.
A good way to understand baptism is to look at a wedding ring. A wedding ring is worn by people who’ve committed their life in marriage to their mate. The ring doesn’t make them married but shows a reality (their marriage) that has already taken place, and so it is with baptism. Baptism doesn’t save you. It shows your salvation in Jesus Christ has taken place.
What can you expect when you are baptized? Much like Jesus' own experience when he was baptized as an example for us, many people experience a deep sense of God silently saying, "This is my child with whom I am well pleased." Also like Jesus, many people experience a greater level of intimacy with and empowerment from the Holy Spirit after being baptized. Come with faith and great expectation when you are baptized and see what God will do in your life!
If you would like to be baptised at our next baptism service or have questions about being baptized, just complete the form below and we will be in touch soon.
You can learn more about baptism at GCC by checking out the these frequently asked questions:
1. It expresses and demonstrates your belief in Jesus.
"Christ died for our sins... He was buried... and He rose again." --I Cor. 15:3-4
"For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ." --Col. 2:12
2. It illustrates my new life as a Christian.
"When someone becomes a Christian he becomes a brand new person inside. The old life has passed away and a new life has begun!" --2 Cor. 5:17
"By our baptism then, we were buried with Him and shared His death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead... so also we may live a new life!" --Rom. 6:4
Baptism doesn´t make you a believer - it shows that you already believe. Baptism does not "save" you, only your faith in Christ does that. Baptism is like a wedding ring - it´s the outward symbol of the commitment you make in your heart.
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith... it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast." --Ephesians 2:8,9
"Those who believe and accepted His message were baptized..." --Acts 2:41
"Simon himself believed and was baptized..." --Acts 8:13
"But when they believed Philip as he preached the Good News... and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women." --Acts 8:12
2. At Grace Community Church, we wait until our children are old enough to believe and understand the true meaning of baptism before we baptize them.
Some churches practice a "baptism of confirmation" for children. This ceremony is intended to be a covenant between the parents and God on the behalf of the child. The parents promise to raise their child in the faith until the child is old enough to make his own personal confession of Christ. This custom began about 300 years after the Bible was completed.
This is different from the baptism talked about in the Bible which was only for those old enough to believe. The purpose is to publicly confess your personal commitment to Christ.
Women should wear shorts and a top which will preserve modesty. Men may wear a swimsuit and t-shirt. Bring a change of clothes, a towel, and a plastic bag for your wet articles of clothing. We provide changing rooms.
Yes! If each family member understands fully the meaning of baptism, and each one has personally placed his/her trust in Christ for salvation, we encourage families to be baptized at the same time. It is a wonderful expression of commitment. Young children who wish to be baptized are asked to meet with our Minister of Children for a pre-baptism conversation.
However, it is important to remember that baptism is a personal statement of faith, not a family tradition.
