Baptism BELIEFS
WHY be baptized?
To follow Christ's example (Mark 1:9); Because Christ commanded it (Matthew 28:19-20); It demonstrates that I am a believer (Acts 18:8)
What's the MEANING of baptism?
Illustrates Christ's death & resurrection (Colossians 2:12); Illustrates my new life as a Christian (2 Corinthians 5:17; Romans 6:4) *Baptism doesn't save you or make you a believer. Only your faith in Christ does that. It shows that you believe. Like a wedding ring, it is an outward symbol of the commitment you've made in your heart to trust and follow Jesus.
Why baptism by IMMERSION?
Because Jesus was baptized by immersion (Matthew 3:16); Every baptism in the Bible was by immersion (one example, Acts 8:38-39); the literal meaning for "baptize" is to "immerse under water"
WHEN should I be baptized?
As soon as you believe! (Acts 2:41); There's no reason to delay; don't wait until you are "perfect"...you'll never feel good enough!
Do we baptize CHILDREN?
We wait until 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 custom began about 300 years after the Bible was written. It was intended to be a covenant between parents and God on behalf of the child. Child dedication serves this purpose in our church. We believe baptism is only for those old enough to believe and that it is a public confession or your personal commitment to Christ. Like a bride and groom, no one else can say "I do" on their behalf. If your child is interested in being baptized, you can talk to the Simple Kids' Pastor, Christy@thesimplechurch.tv.
To follow Christ's example (Mark 1:9); Because Christ commanded it (Matthew 28:19-20); It demonstrates that I am a believer (Acts 18:8)
What's the MEANING of baptism?
Illustrates Christ's death & resurrection (Colossians 2:12); Illustrates my new life as a Christian (2 Corinthians 5:17; Romans 6:4) *Baptism doesn't save you or make you a believer. Only your faith in Christ does that. It shows that you believe. Like a wedding ring, it is an outward symbol of the commitment you've made in your heart to trust and follow Jesus.
Why baptism by IMMERSION?
Because Jesus was baptized by immersion (Matthew 3:16); Every baptism in the Bible was by immersion (one example, Acts 8:38-39); the literal meaning for "baptize" is to "immerse under water"
WHEN should I be baptized?
As soon as you believe! (Acts 2:41); There's no reason to delay; don't wait until you are "perfect"...you'll never feel good enough!
Do we baptize CHILDREN?
We wait until 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 custom began about 300 years after the Bible was written. It was intended to be a covenant between parents and God on behalf of the child. Child dedication serves this purpose in our church. We believe baptism is only for those old enough to believe and that it is a public confession or your personal commitment to Christ. Like a bride and groom, no one else can say "I do" on their behalf. If your child is interested in being baptized, you can talk to the Simple Kids' Pastor, Christy@thesimplechurch.tv.
