BAPTISM
The early Protestant Reformers used to say that the ordinances were visible words of the gospel. We hear the gospel preached with audible words and see the gospel displayed with visible words through the ordinances.
Ordinances are acts "ordained" by our Lord Jesus Christ for his church. These ordinances are beautiful reminders of the gospel and keep us focused on the gospel as the means by which we relate to God. There are two ordinances that Christ has left his church: (1) Believer's Baptism by Immersion and (2) The Lord's Supper for Believers.
What Exactly is Baptism?
Baptism is an act of obedience for followers of Jesus Christ. Jesus' disciples are commanded to be baptized after placing faith in Him to identify as his follower (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 2:37-38).
Baptism is your public witness that you have repented of your sins and submitted your life to Jesus as Lord and Savior. When you are baptized you are letting everyone know that you are a believer in Jesus Christ and going to live your life completely for Him.
Baptism is also a beautiful picture of the gospel and what Jesus has done for you and in you. The act of baptism portrays Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:14). However, baptism also pictures what Christ has done in you.
When you are baptized by immersion you will be placed under the water and then brought back up. This speaks of how in Christ you have died to your sins but been raised to walk in the new, abundant life Jesus gives (Romans 6:4; John 10:10).
It is important to know that your baptism does not save you or secure your salvation. Your faith in Jesus saves you and secures you for all eternity (Ephesians 2:8; Philippians 1:6). Baptism does, however, identify you as a follower of Jesus Christ and as a member of the church.
If you have never been baptized, we would love to speak with you about being baptized and publicly declaring your faith for Christ.