Baptism - what's it about?

Baptism Notes

 What is Baptism?

a.      BURIAL…symbolises death and resurrection.

 “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead, we too may live a new life.” -  Romans 6:3-4

b.      BATH … symbolises cleansing.

 “…get up and be baptised. Have your sins washed away by calling on the name of the Lord.” -  Acts 22:16

(also 1Peter 3:21)

2. Why get baptised? – the command of Jesus

    

Matthew 28:19 “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them… and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded.”

3.      Who can be baptised?

Anyone who is

a.      Turning from wrong to right.

“…all must repent of their sins and turn to God – and prove they have changed by the good things they do. – Acts 26:20 (also Acts 2:38)

b.      Trusting that God has forgiven them and has a plan for their life.

“Therefore since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory. - Romans 5:1-2

(also Ephesians 2:10)

c.      Trying to obey God’s commands

Jesus said, “Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me…” - John 14:21.

4. What to Expect

    

 “As soon as Jesus was baptised, 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) “From then on Jesus began to preach ‘Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.’ (Matthew 4:17)

a.      Expect God to empower you – Like Jesus.

b.      Expect God to honour and bless you as a member of His family – Like Jesus.

c.      Expect God to give you a new purpose in life. – Like Jesus.

5. Order of service

    

·      Introduction and Welcome

·      Worship

·      Talk and explanation of baptism

·      Testimonies on the side of the pool

·      Personal prayer for those being baptised

·      Baptism by helper(s)

6. What shall I wear?

    

Normal wear is a T shirt over a swimming costume but others like to cover up a bit more than that. If you do not wear a swimming costume make sure that what you wear does not go transparent when wet!

7. Do I have to stand in a special way to be baptised?

    

No. But those baptising you will explain where to put your hands. Have a friend ready with a towel after you get out of the pool.

8. Who can I invite to the service?

    

– as many friends and family as you can!

9. Remember!

    

 – this is your special occasion – don’t worry about visitors, relax and let the Lord bless you.