WATER BAPTISM
I. Why should I be Baptized?
1. To follow the example set by Christ.
“At that time Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river.” Mark 1:9
2. Because Christ commands it.
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20
3. It demonstrates that I really am a believer.
“…many of the people who heard Him believed and were baptized.” Acts 18:8
II. What is the meaning of Baptism?
1. It illustrates Christ’s burial and resurrection.
“For when you are baptized, you were buried with Christ, and baptism you were also raised with Christ.” Colossians 2:12
2. It illustrates my new life as a Christian.
“When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. The old life has passes away and a new life has begun!” 2 Corinthians 5:12
III. Why be Baptized by Immersion?
1. Because Jesus was baptized that way.
“As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water.” Matthew 3:16
2. Every baptism in the Bible was by immersion.
“…them both Philip and the man went down into the water
and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the
water…” Acts 8:38-39
3. The word “baptize” means “to dip in water.”
4. It best symbolizes a burial and resurrection!
IV. Who should be Baptized?
1. Every person who has believed in Christ.
“Those who believed and accepted His message were baptized…” Acts 2:41
“But when they believed Philip as he preached the Good News and in the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.” Acts 8:12
At AVFA, we wait until our Children are old enough to believe and understand the true meaning of baptism before we baptize them.
V. When Should I be Baptized?
As soon as you have believed!
“Those who believed…were baptized…that day! Acts 2:41
In regards to children, we believe God can save a child whenever he chooses. At the same time, the church should be judicious as to when it endorses the reality of a child’s decision. So, while there is not a definitive minimum age before a child can be baptized, we believe that prior to baptism children should show evidence of genuine faith independent of parental control.
This cautious, yet optimistic approach preserves the purity of baptism, ensures a proper comprehension of baptism’s significance, and safeguards against a false understanding of salvation.