What is water baptism?
Water baptism is an outward expression of a change that has occurred in the heart of a born-again Christian. It gives evidence of the inner change that has already occurred in the believer's life when he or she was “born again” through faith in Jesus Christ.
So why should we be baptized in water?
There are two main reasons to be baptized in water:
● An Act of Obedience: Water baptism is an act of faith and obedience to the commands of Christ. See Matthew 28:19-20
● A Public Declaration: Baptism is a public confession of your faith in, and commitment to, Jesus Christ. It is the next step after salvation through repentance and faith, and is an important foundation for the Christian life.
Baptism is like the symbol of a wedding ring. It is the outward symbol of the commitment you made in your heart, a commitment that has to be followed through and lived out on a daily basis. It’s meant to show the world that you love, trust, and have put your hope in Christ.
What does the Bible say about water baptism and its significance?
“Going under the water was a burial of your old life; coming up out of it was a resurrection, God raising you from the dead as he did Christ. When you were stuck in your old sin-dead life, you were incapable of responding to God. God brought you alive—right along with Christ! Think of it! All sins forgiven, the slate wiped clean, that old arrest warrant canceled and nailed to Christ’s cross.” Colossians 2:12-14 MSG
Baptism is a move from death to life. It is a symbol of Christ’s burial and resurrection. Our entrance into the water during baptism identifies us with Christ’s death on the cross, His burial in the tomb, and His resurrection from the dead. And it is a brand new life. It is a symbol of your new life as a Christian. We bury the “old life” and we rise to walk in a “new life”.
How do I get baptized?
Basically, when you make a decision to believe in Jesus Christ, the next natural step is to be baptized. Here at Calvary Alameda, if you are interested in being baptized, please let one of the leaders know or you can filling out a communication card found at the Worship Stations. We baptize on Sundays throughout the year when people step forward and request to be baptized.
