Baptism
Baptism is a very important part of an obedient relationship with God. After you make a commitment to Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, the Bible says that you need to be baptized. This is what the Bible says about baptism and why it is important.
Why should I be Baptized?
Jesus commanded it.
“Jesus said, ‘Go then, to all people everywhere and make them My disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:19-20
To follow the example set by Christ.
“At that time Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river.” Mark 1:9
It is a symbol that you believe in Jesus Christ as Savior.
“Those who accepted his message were baptized…” Acts 2:41
What is the meaning of Baptism?
It illustrates Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection.
“For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ.” Colossians 2:12
It illustrates your new life as a Christian.
“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 have a new life.” Romans 6:4
Baptism does not make you a believer; it symbolizes that you already believe. It’s important to understand that baptism does not “save” you. You are “saved” only through your faith in Jesus.
“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
Baptism is like a wedding ring—it’s the outward symbol of the commitment you make in your heart.
Who should be Baptized?
Every person who has believed in Christ.
“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
An important thing to know is that if you were baptized as a baby, it is not the same thing as Biblical believer’s baptism. As seen in the verses above, this act of immersion occurs after you commit your life to Christ in salvation.
Many parents have their children baptized as a sign of dedication to God. Many churches including FishHawk Fellowship have a dedication service for infants and children that emphasizes the parent’s role in raising a child to follow Christ. See the Baby/Child Dedication information on our PreSchool page.
While such ceremonies certainly have meaning for the parents, the Bible clearly teaches that any person who receives Christ by faith should then follow that commitment by being baptized.
What if I Do Not Have My Baptism "in order"?
The Word of God commands us to be baptized after salvation. If you were already baptized before your salvation experience, then to fully follow the Lord in obedience to Him, it is best to be baptized after salvation.
Why Be Baptized by Immersion?
Because Jesus was baptized that way.
“As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went out of the water.” Matthew 3:16
The word “baptize” actually means “to submerge or to dip under water.”
Immersion best symbolizes a burial and resurrection.
“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 Corinthians 5:17
What Do I Do Now?
Time and time again in the Bible when people professed their faith in Jesus Christ as Savior, immediately they were baptized. (Acts 2:41, Acts 8:35-38, Acts 16:29-33). We want to encourage you to do the same!
When can I get Baptized?
With few exceptions, we schedule baptisms for any of our Sunday worship services.
If you have any more questions or would like to schedule your baptism, please contact us: bmagruder@fishhawkfc.org or call the church office: (813) 655-7431.
