- To follow Christ's example: At that time Jesus came from Nazareth 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 that I have commanded you." Matthew 28:18-20
- Because every story of conversion in the New Testament is followed by baptism: "Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart and said...'Brothers what should we do?' Peter said to them, 'Repent and baptized every one of you." Acts 2:38
- Because it shows you are a believer: "...many of the Corinthians who heard of him believed and were baptized." Acts 18:8
What is the meaning of baptism?
- It illustrates Christ's burial and ressurection: "Christ died for our sins...He was buried...and He rose again." 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 "For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ." Colossians 2:12
- It symbolizes your new life as a Christian: "When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. The old life has passed away and the new life has begun." 2 Corinthians 5:17 "By our baptism then, we were buried with Him and shared His death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead...so also we may have new life." Romans 6:4
Why be baptized by immersion?
- Because Jesus was baptized that way: "As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water." Matthew 3:16
- Because every baptism in the New Testament was by immersion: "...then Phillip and the man went down into the water and Phillip baptized him. When they came up out of the water..." Acts 8:38-39
- The word baptize literally means, to dip under water: The Greek word translated baptism in the New Testament is baptizo. It literally means to dip or plunge under the water.
- It best symbolizes a burial and ressurection.
Who should be baptized?
- Every person who has made the decision to believe in Christ: "Those who believed and accepted his message were baptized." Acts 2:41 "But when they believed Phillip as he preached the good news...and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized both men and women." Acts 8:12
The one requirement for baptism in the New Testament was belief. At Avoca, we do not baptize children until they are old enough to understand and believe.
When should I be baptized?
- As soon as you believe! You should not delay: "Those who believed...were baptized that day!" Acts 2:41 We believe the Scriptures teach that baptism immediately follows belief. Every member of ACC has been baptized by immersion just as Jesus demonstrated and commanded us to follow. The New Testament knows nothing of an un-baptized believer.
If you are interested in becoming a follower of Christ and being baptized, you can call our church and talk to one of our ministers, or request a contact by emailing office@avocachristianchurch.org. We are able to do baptisms every week during any one of our services or we can arrange for a private ceremony. God will bless you as you demonstrate your faith in Christ.
