For the preaching
of the cross
is to them that perish
foolishness;
but unto us
which are saved
it is the
power of God.
I Corinthians 1:18 (KJV)
What Is Baptism, and Why Should I Be Baptized?
Baptism is an outward, visible proclamation of your salvation. It cannot replace a salvation experience but serves to complete your profession of faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.
The Southern Baptist Convention states:
"Christian baptism is the immersion of a believer in water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. It is an act of obedience symbolizing the believer's faith in a crucified, buried, and risen Savior, the believer's death to sin, the burial of the old life, and the resurrection to walk in newness of life in Christ Jesus. It is a testimony to his faith in the final resurrection of the dead. Being a church ordinance, it is prerequisite to the privileges of church membership..."
Baptisms are performed several times throughout the year, and yours will be arranged so that the church and your family and guests may be present.
You and others to be baptized will be asked to meet in the office after the morning worship celebration, where Pastor Brad will speak with you to clarify what to expect. Then you will change into other clothes that you will have brought with you, if you do not wish to wear your church clothes for your baptism.
Other than a change of clothes, it would be helpful if you bring your own towel and a plastic bag for taking your wet things home. You may wish to bring your hair dryer, if you use one. Don't forget a comb!
Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.
Mark 16:16 (NIV)
Jesus said, "You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5:13-16 (NIV)
