What is baptism all about?
Congratulations Safina for taking the faith-step of baptism today. Do you understand the importance of water baptism? Here we go then……
The word “baptize” comes from the Greek word “baptizō” (baptidzo), which means “to make fully wet,” “to immerse,” “to submerge,” to “wash oneself.” Baptism is an act of obedience to Christ and a demonstration before church witnesses of a person’s death to sin and new life in Christ (Mt 28:19-20; Ro 6: 3-4). It is an outward testimony of an inward change. You do not have to be baptised to be saved: Salvation is by God’s grace alone, and we are justified through our faith in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. However, if a believer refuses baptism one must question the validity of their faith. Jesus himself was baptised in order to show us the way of following (Matthew 3:13-15). Every follower of Jesus should be baptised once they reach an age when they understand what repentance means. To repent means to ask Christ to forgive your sin and to intentionally turn away from known sin and purposely live your life according to God’s moral values, on a daily basis. God pours out His grace at baptism and it is often the starting point of a believer using their spiritual gifts in ministry; just like Christ Himself did after His baptism. If you would like to be baptised please make contact with me: julie@connectbaptist.org.nz
God bless you on your faith journey
About Pastor Julie
I’m passionate about the church – building believers up in their faith, to be all God intended them to be; and I’m passionate about sharing the love and hope of Jesus with people who don’t know Him yet.