BAPTISM

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. . . . Matthew 28:19

What is Baptism?

Question 44 of the New City Catechism gives this answer, “Baptism is the washing with water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit; it signifies and seals our adoption into Christ, our cleansing from sin, and our commitment to belong to the Lord and to his church.”

And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38–41

Repent and be baptized" does not suggest that individuals can attain salvation without faith in Christ as Savior. The necessity of belief is clear in both the instructions to "repent" and the instruction to "be baptized... in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins." The readiness to undergo baptism is an external manifestation of internal faith in Christ.

What Does Baptism Symbolize?

And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name. Acts 22:16

The directive to "Be baptized and wash away your sins" does not suggest that the physical act of baptism alone purifies individuals spiritually from sin. Ananias issues two separate commands to Paul, indicating that baptism serves as an external symbol of the purification from sin that happens when one places their faith and trust in Jesus Christ (cf. 1 Pet. 3:21).

Belief results in cleansing, while baptism symbolizes this truth.Through water baptism, we respond to the transformative work already accomplished in our hearts by Christ, fulfilling the call of the Great Commission to be baptized (Matt. 28:19) in obedience to Christ command. (Acts 2:38–41)

If you have recently come to faith in Christ or as an apprentice of Jesus you have not yet been baptized, this is your next faithful step. Join us for our next class and learn about the biblical significance of baptism that will equip and prepare you for your new life in Christ.

Are Your Ready to Be Baptized?

To begin, download our Baptism packet below. It provides fundamental information on baptism and includes questions to contemplate as you embark on this next step. You can also sign up for the next class where you will go through the packet and baptism process with Pastor Joe Jewell. Got Questions? Email Pastor Joe at Joe@vc.church.