What is baptism?
Baptism is the outward sign of an inward change. It is a public testimony that you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour and that it is your desire to follow Him.
““Those who accepted His message were baptized…””
After His resurrection, Jesus ascended into heaven. But before leaving, He gave His disciples this command:
““Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.””
Why be Baptized?
Baptism is one of the most important practices in the church because it reminds us of Jesus’ death and resurrection, as well as our relationship to God and one another through the Holy Spirit.
Baptism is a command.
Choosing to be baptized is an act of obedience to the Lord Jesus and one of the first steps you can take to demonstrate your willingness to follow His teachings.
Jesus set the example.
Christ’s willingness to be baptized serves as an example to every believer. In baptism we do as Jesus did (1 John 2:6) and seek to follow in His steps (1 Peter 2:21).
Baptism is a testimony.
Publicly identifying with Jesus’ death and resurrection (Romans 6:3-5). Letting others know that you no longer live for yourself, but for Christ. Your baptism can be an opportunity to share the Gospel with family and friends and let them see what God has done in your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will baptism save me?
Baptism does not save you — only Jesus does. Jesus told the thief on the cross who was crucified alongside Him that:
““I assure you, today you will be with Me in paradise.””
This criminal wasn’t saved by his good works or a ritual — a baptism ceremony — but by believing in Jesus.
“God saved you by His grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. ”
Though baptism doesn’t save you, the Bible is clear that those who choose to follow Jesus should take this step. If you’re a believer and you’ve delayed getting baptized, feel free to talk with your Pastor about what is holding you back.
If I was baptized as a baby, do I need to be baptized again?
Many churches that practice believers’ baptism will encourage you to be baptized now as an adult because believers’ baptism is a profession of your own faith in Jesus, instead of the faith of your parents or someone else. Believers’ baptism by immersion is the only mode of baptism presented in the New Testament, making it a very important part of the Christian life.
I was baptized when I first became a Christian, but then fell away from the Lord. Should I be baptized again?
In most cases, a person who was baptized as a believer is not re-baptized later. Christians will continue to have struggles with sin after trusting in Jesus and after being baptized. The apostle John wrote to believers that:
““But if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.””
Confessing our need for forgiveness doesn’t just happen at baptism, but is an ongoing part of our Christian lives. The good news is that God promises to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all wickedness, and are still his dearly loved children.
There was a situation in the New Testament where re-baptism was required (Acts 19:1-5). Reasons today to consider re-baptizing may include:
not understanding what you were doing when you were baptized.
having been pressured by someone into being baptized, but you hadn’t made a personal commitment to Jesus.
having been baptized in a church or religious group that did not teach the biblical Gospel message of salvation.
Feel free to talk with your Pastor about your own situation.
Ask Yourself:
Do I believe Jesus died for my sins and rose from the dead?
Have I asked Jesus into my life, to be my Saviour and forgive my sins?
Is it my sincere desire to follow Jesus and identify with Him?
If you answered yes to these questions, consider being baptized.
Steps to Baptism at Hillcrest
Review our Baptism Booklet (download, print, or pick up a paper copy at the church office).
Connect with our Pastor of Community Life.
The two of you will discuss and prepare for your baptism.
Jamie Mcdonald
Pastor of Community Life
Reach out to Jamie for more info, or to be baptized.