We believe that baptism is an outward representation of a person’s inward decision to follow Jesus.
What is the meaning of baptism?
What is the purpose of baptism?
Baptism is a one-time act that gives a person the opportunity to publicly confess to their community (of family, friends, and the church body) that they have received Christ as the forgiver of their sins, and that Jesus is now leader and Lord of their life.
Clarifying statements:
Simply put, baptism is an outward representation of an inward decision and transformation. Baptism is a picture and a symbol of Christ’s death and resurrection in a believers life. As we enter into the waters or watch another do so, we are reminded that Christ was crucified and raised from the dead and that we, too, have died to the old self in order to live for Christ (Romans 6:3-11).
People do not get baptized to have their sins forgiven. They get baptized because their sins have been forgiven through Christ’s death and resurrection. Baptism is a symbol. Just as Jesus died, so a believer identities with His death through being immersed in water. And just as Jesus rose, so in baptism a believer rises from the water, proclaiming and identifying with the new life they have because of Him.
People get baptized as a symbol of their membership within the global church. They are a part of the universal body of believers who have put their faith in Jesus, and are following Him as their Lord and Savior.