What is Baptism?

Baptism is a public display of your faith in Jesus Christ. When you are baptized in water, you are giving an outward sign of your inward change. Baptism does not make you a believer, it  demonstrates that you already believe. Baptism does not “save” you. You are saved only by your faith in Jesus Christ. Ephesians 2:8 – “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.”

When should I be Baptized?

As soon as you have decided to believe and follow Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord, you should be baptized. There is no reason to wait. Baptism is your next step after salvation.

Why is Baptism important?

Baptism literally means to “dip under or immerse in water.” Immersion under the water represents Jesus’ death to pay the penalty for our sins, and us dying to our old sinful way of life. Being raised out of the water represents Jesus’ resurrection, and our new way of life as a follower of Jesus. Jesus commanded every follower to be baptized. To be baptized is to follow His command. Romans 6:4 (The Message) – “That’s what baptism into the life of Jesus means. When we are lowered into the water, it is like the burial of Jesus; when we are raised up out of the water, it is like the resurrection of Jesus.”

• It is a public confession of being a follower of Jesus

When you are baptized in water, you are expressing the sincerity of your faith in Jesus. It is a public announcement of the change Jesus brought into your life the moment you repented of your sins and received His forgiveness. A public statement of your faith is essential to build a strong, healthy Christian life. Matthew 10:32-33 – “Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven.”

• It is an act of obedience to Jesus’ command

Jesus commands all of His disciples to be baptized in water. Matthew 28:19-20 – “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.”

• You are following the example of Jesus

Matthew 3:13-17 is the story of Jesus’ water baptism experience. As you read this account, notice the supernatural events that take place:

• • Heaven was opened to Him
  • He saw the Spirit of God
  • The Spirit rested on Him
  • The Father spoke and affirmed Him

As you act in simple obedience to the commands and example of Jesus Christ, we are believing God to do great things in your life!

Preparing for Water Baptism

• If you would like to be baptized*, sign up below!
• We will provide a free T-shirt for your baptism. You just need to bring modest shorts or pants, a towel and change of clothes.
• Be sure to let family members and friends know about your baptism. They may want to attend.
• Your family or friends may take pictures or video if you would like. We will invite them up to the platform
  when you are being baptized.

For further information or questions, contact Pastor Brian at 515-556-4771, or brian@newhope.church.

*If you have children who would like to be baptized, please contact Pastor Cortney at 515-564-9827, or cortney@newhope.church.