Water Baptism

Baptism by immersion, in contrast to sprinkling, is the example that the scripture provides for us. The Greek word, "Baptizmo," from which our word baptism is derived, literally means "to dip or immerse."

Every believer should be baptized according to the scriptural pattern set forth by Jesus Christ. It is a command to be followed, not an option to be considered. In Mark 16:16 we read, "He who believes and is baptized shall be saved..."

You should honor your parents' intention that you live with God's blessings, but you realize your need for believer's baptism. We present babies to the Lord as an act of dedication.

Yes, children can be baptized, but only after proper consideration. While there is no minimum age limit for baptism, parents should converse with their children and, if needed, one of the pastors, to determine if the child has made a decision to accept Christ and is aware of the meaning of baptism. Children under 12 years old will need to meet with the children's pastor for guidance.

This is an act of faith following repentance. This is the biblical pattern. In Acts 8:36-38 we read: " Now as they went down the road, they came to some water. And as the eunuch said, "See, here is the water. What hinders me from being baptized?" Then Philip said, 'If you believe with all your heart, you may.' And he answered and said, 'I believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God.' So he commanded the chariot to stand still. And both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him." Jesus commanded water baptism in Matthew 28:19: " 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." Jesus Himself is an example of being baptized, which is recorded in Matthew 3:13-15.