Literally, baptism means “to dip, immerse, place into.” Baptism is a public declaration of your personal belief in Christ. It is a step of commitment to Jesus after receiving Him as your personal Savior (Acts 2:41a).

Your baptism is a powerful testimony to others of your complete identification with Christ. Every single baptism is a portrayal of the gospel story - Christ died and we too are dead to sin through salvation. Christ was buried and we are burying our old sinful life. Christ was raised and we are raised to new life in Christ.

Baptism also demonstrates our obedience to Christ. Jesus said, "If you love me, you will keep my commandments." When we love Jesus, we want to do what He says. Jesus was baptized. The disciples were baptized. Those in the early church were baptized. In Peter’s first sermon after Pentecost he preached saying, "Repent and be baptized, everyone of you, in the name of Jesus Christ." (Acts 2:38)

Q & A – BELIEVER’S BAPTISM

What if I have not yet received Christ personally as my Lord and Savior?

First, investigate who Jesus is and receive Him as your personal Savior and as Lord of your life. Salvation is necessary before baptism can occur.

Can I be saved if I’m not baptized?

Salvation comes through our faith in Christ as our Savior and Lord. Baptism does not make us a Christian, nor is it necessary for salvation. "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Must I be baptized here at Bethel?

No, not if you have already been baptized by immersion as a believer.

I was baptized as an infant. How does that relate to believer’s baptism as an adult?

In the Bible, we find parents bringing their children to Jesus. He held them and prayed for them and told us to welcome them. He did not baptize them and He did not tell anyone else to baptize them. Baptism is for those who have made a personal decision to trust Christ alone for salvation. If you were baptized as an infant, it was the intent of your parents that you would one day be a follower of Christ. Your baptism as a believer can be viewed as the fulfillment of your parents’ wishes.

What should I do if I want to be baptized at Bethel?

Indicate your desire for more information on a Communication Card or contact the church office, a pastor or church elder. You will be asked to fill out an Application Form and to meet with Bethel’s Baptism/Membership Committee. Baptism celebrations are scheduled throughout the year.

Baptism Form

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