Baptism
We know you are excited about your decision to follow Christ and here at Destiny Church, we want to share that excitement with you. We believe the Bible clearly teaches us that baptism is the first step of obedience after salvation and also an exciting way to celebrate your new life in Christ.
Why Should I Be Baptized?
To follow the example set by Christ.
At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. (Mark 1:9)
Because Christ commanded it.
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. (Matthew 28:19–20)
Because it demonstrates one is a Believer in Christ.
We know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands. (1 John 2:3)
Because it illustrates Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.
For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day… (1 Corinthians 15:3-4)
Who Should Be Baptized?
Every person who believes in Christ should be baptized. Believers realize their sin separates them from God. They conclude that Jesus Christ’s death on the cross bridges the gap between them and God. Once they have decided to trust Christ for their salvation, they follow Christ in baptism as a symbol of their new life in Him.
When Should I Be Baptized?
As soon as you have believed in Christ for salvation. “But when they believed Philip as he preached the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.” (Acts 8:12)
The Bible teaches that baptism should follow your decision to become a believer. There is no reason to delay. If you wait until you are “good” enough, you will never feel ready for baptism. Since baptism is not a part of your salvation but a symbol of it, it is ok to wait until the next scheduled baptism.
What Should I Wear?
Dress in clothes you don’t mind getting wet! You should wear a dark shirt and shorts. Remember to bring a change of clothes to wear home. There is a changing room available. Please bring a towel.