Baptism publicly announces our faith, identifies us with Jesus, and symbolizes the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. It’s the way that God wants all new believers to go "all in” and go public with their faith. It’s a simple act, but it takes great courage.
Keep in mind that baptism is not something that saves us eternally – that happens when we ask Jesus to forgive our sins and be our savior.
Why should I be baptized?
To follow the example set by Jesus. Mark 1:9 "It came to pass in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized by John in the Jordan."
Because Christ commanded it. Matthew 28:19-20 "19 Go therefore[a] and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen."
It is a step of obedience. Acts 18:8 "Then Crispus, the ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his household. And many of the Corinthians, hearing, believed and were baptized."
1 John 2:3 "Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments."
What is the meaning of baptism?
It illustrates Christ's death, burial and resurrection. I Corinthians 15:3-4 "3 For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures," Colossians 2:12 "buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead."
It illustrates my new life as a Christian. 2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new." Romans 6:4 "Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life."
It helps me identify with Christ publicly. Baptism doesn't save you or make you a believer-it shows you already believe. Only faith in Christ can save you. Baptism is a way you can demonstrate publicly that you are a believer.
Who should be baptized?
Baptism is a command and expectation for every believer who has made a commitment to Jesus. If you were baptized as a child, you may not have made the decision on your own to follow Christ in baptism. If you have not been baptized by immersion since asking Jesus to be your savior, the forgive and leader of your life, we invite you to be baptized at Harmony.
How should I be baptized?
At Harmony, we believe the Bible teaches that baptism should be by immersion in water as a believer. In fact, every baptism in the Bible was by immersion. (Being placed under water.)
Does baptism make me a Christian? Do I have to be baptized to go to Heaven?
Baptism is something that God commands and expects every believer to take seriously and to go through as an act of obedience. It’s vitally important, but to say that baptism “saves” us or that baptism is required before I can go to heaven contradicts the teachings of the Bible. Jesus told the thief on the cross, “Today, you will be with me in paradise.” The thief had no time to be baptized before dying moments later. Baptism is simply the first next step for a new believer in Jesus.
When can I be baptized?
We set aside at least one Sunday per month. We announce when the next baptism service will be through emails, on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and on our events page (we’re really serious about it).
Can my family be baptized together? Can family members participate in my baptism?
Yes. We love to see family members go through baptism together, but we don’t recommend waiting long for family members to make a decision for Christ and we are careful to make sure that kids “own” their own decision for Jesus. We encourage family to come and participate through their presence, pictures and celebration of baptism.
What should I bring on baptism day?
If you wish, you can bring your own shorts/pants, undergarments, and a towel, along with anything else you think you might need.
How can I let you know I am ready to be baptized or have questions? Let us know by filling out this form here.