Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his.”
Romans 6:3-5
What is Baptism?
Water baptism is a visual and symbolic demonstration of a person’s union with Christ in the likeness of His death and resurrection. In Jesus all the purposes of baptism (washing, purification, etc) in the Old Testemant are fulfilled, completed, and clarified and given to His people as a beautiful gift. Baptism publically:
- Confesses our need for complete spiritual cleansing. (1 John 1:9)
- Confesses that we are now set apart to His purposes. (Ephesians 2:10)
- Confesses our transition into His kingdom. (1 Peter 2:9-10)
- Confesses our desire to walk in His ways in full trust. (Galatians 2:20)
- Confesses the hope of the resurrection. (Romans 6:3-5)
Water baptism, therefore, is only intended for the individual who has received the saving benefits of Christ’s atoning work by grace through faith in Christ, and is not an act that saves you. Thus, we do not baptize infants.
Learn more about baptism in the “Raised to New Life” sermon.
Why should a person be baptized?
Baptism is a moment of obedience involving the whole person spiritual, physical, and emotional and is becomes an ever present reminder (alter of remembrance) and spiritual reality reflecting our hope, confidence, and confession in the complete work of Jesus. Baptism also serves as a testimony of God’s work to the body and an encouragement and challenge to continue to walk faithfully according to our own confessions.
How should a person be baptized?
Central Christian practices baptism by immersion. In the New Testament the Greek word for baptism is “baptizo,” which literally means to plunge, submerge or immerse. We also immerse because it is a clear depiction of our union with Christ in His death and resurrection.
How do I pursue baptism?
If you would like to be baptized or learn more about it, please email Pastor Huy Merritt at merritth@ccc.org.