Baptism
Baptism is supposed to be a big deal. It’s supposed to be thoughtful, but fun, humbling, yet uplifting. We want to give you as much info as possible so that you will know what you’re getting into, and will have lots of information about how the event happens. You’ll notice right away that this page is composed of sections dealing with What Baptism Means, the Service, and the Vows.
What Being Baptized Means & Does…
v Tells the world about your change of heart
Much like John the Baptist’s, Christian baptism tells the world that you have found another route to go. Baptism symbolizes the fresh start.
v Tells the world about your faith.
Being baptized today publicly represents that you are choosing to follow Jesus as your Savior (you have accepted His love and forgiveness for not following Him previously), and as your Lord (you claim Him as the Owner and Leader of your life).
v Tells the world the story of Jesus.
Baptism represents the death and resurrection of Jesus. As a person goes underneath the water, it is symbolic of Jesus entering into the tomb. As we come out of the water, it represents Jesus having victory over the grave.
v Symbolizes our new birth.
The Bible tells us that we are a new creation in Christ. We have chosen to leave our former ways behind in favor of a better life with Christ. We let our “old” selves die, and allow our “new” selves to live.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baptism…
What about infant baptism?
It is a beautiful symbol of God’s grace being present and available for people long before they know of it. Believer’s baptism is an obvious compliment to the infant baptism, as it proclaims that one has received what the parents hoped for at an early age. It is important to understand that these are two different “animals” that support each other. They are not in conflict with one another. Many people who were baptized as infants by their parent’s choice have chosen to be baptized as a believer.
Why do I have to get dunked?
Why not a symbolic “sprinkle”?
Sprinkling no doubt came about because of extreme circumstances, and then became tradition. The circumstances may have included lack of water to dunk, too cold to dunk, or the person may have been physically unable to be dunked. In those cases, it made sense to provide some way of symbolizing commitment to Christ. But it was a weak substitute. Immersion represents being made completely clean. And it represents the death and resurrection of Jesus by re-enacting the burial and resurrection of our Lord. Sprinkling shortchanges the full experience. Even if you’ve been sprinkled as a believer, you are welcome to experience immersion. Many have, and will attest to its power.
What if I don’t want to get baptized?
God doesn’t force us to do anything. But, Jesus was crystal clear in his final instructions to His disciples when he said, Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them… The spiritual issue is whether or not He is Lord enough to honor Him in His request, trusting that in going through with it, your best interest is at heart. The practical issue? Not being baptized will not affect how you are treated at CrossWalk Community Church. You are free to get as involved as you want. Believers Baptism is a prerequisite for membership, which means that only a few leadership positions as well as voting will be unavailable to you. Otherwise, go for as much as you want!
If you have any other questions, please call, write, email or meet with Pastor Pete (O: 707-226-1812, E: ).
Baptism Vows…
“By being baptized today, I am proclaiming my belief that Jesus is the Son of God, who lived, died, and lived again out of love for me and all people. I know my sins are forgiven and my future in heaven is certain. With the Spirit’s power I will strive everyday to follow however and wherever God leads me.”
Church’s Vow: repeated after Pete upon hearing Candidate’s Vow:
“We will be community for you, (candidates name), loving you through life’s ups and downs, encouraging you to trust God and follow Him daily.
The Baptism of Jesus
As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased."
Matthew 3: 16-17
