Christian baptism is immersion in water as a public statement of one's new identity in Christ, having received Him by faith as Savior and Lord. Baptism is like a wedding ring - it's the outward symbol of the commitment you made in your heart. Baptism does not save a person. Rather, baptism is the first act of obedience for one who has been saved. The model given to us in the Bible is that baptism immediately follows conversion.

Why be Baptized?

1. Because you want to follow Christ's example.
   "At that time Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river." Mark 1:9
2. Because Christ commanded it.
   Jesus said, "Go then, to all people everywhere and make them my disciples, baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and then teach them to obey everything I have commanded you." Matthew 28: 19-20
3. Because it shows you are a believer.
   "...many of the Corinthians who heard him believed and were baptized." Acts 18:8
4. Because obeying Christ's command shows you know Him.
   "We know that we have come to know Him, if we obey His commands." 1 John 2:3

What is the meaning of Baptism?

1. It is a symbol of Christ's burial and resurrection.
   "Christ died for our sins...he was buried...and he rose again."
   1 Corinthians. 15:3,4
2. It is a symbol of your new life as a Christian.
   "When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. The old life has passed away and a new life has begun!" 2 Corinthians 5:17

"By our baptism then we were buried with Him and shared His death, in order that just as Christ was raised from the dead also we might live a new life!" Romans 6:4

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith... it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast." Ephesians 2:8,9

How are we to be Baptized?

1. Like Jesus was baptized - being immersed in water.
   "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 under water.
   "...then both Philip and the eunuch 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 literally means "to dip under water."
   The Greek word "baptize" means "to immerse or dip under water."

Who should be Baptized?

Every person who has made the decision to believe in Christ.
"Those who believed and accepted His message were baptized." Acts 2:41

The one requirement for baptism is belief in Christ! We do not baptize children until they are old enough to understand and believe.

For more information on being baptized, please contact Tom Tisdale ttisdale@go2cornerstone.com or 674-8661 ext. 1038.

When are we to be Baptized?

As soon as you have believed! You shouldn't delay.
"Those who believed...were baptized...that day!" Acts 2:41

What about being Baptized twice?

Our church recommends that you be baptized again if you have not been baptized by immersion since you became a believer. It doesn't devalue a prior experience but simply reflects your desire to be baptized in the same way Jesus was baptized.

Can my family be Baptized together?

Yes! If each family member understands fully the meaning of baptism, and each one has personally placed his/her trust in Christ for salvation, we encourage families to be baptized at the same time.

What should I wear when I'm baptized?

It's best to wear your swimsuit and a t-shirt.  Women should wear shorts and a t-shirt over their swimsuit.

Will I have to say anything?

No, the pastor will explain baptism to guests, then introduce you, and then briefly lower you just under the surface of the water. You then will leave the water and watch with the others.