Baptism Class: December 8, 2024 (12:30 p.m.)
Baptism Services: December 29, 2024
Baptism is a means of grace given to the believer whereby the believer publicly displays their union with Christ in his death, burial, and resurrection (Rom 6:3-4; Col 2:12). It is done through immersion of the believer in water (baptize) in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit (Matt 2:19; Acts 8:37-38) It is an act of faith that is commanded to every regenerate believer by our Lord Jesus Christ (Matt 28:19-20).
Baptism does not lead to salvation (Eph 2:8-9), it is a symbol after the fact. Without authentic saving faith in the Lord Jesus and the repentance of sins, one cannot be truly baptized (Acts 2:38; Matt 3:6; 3:11; Mark 1:5). The Christian is not saved because they are baptized, they are baptized because they are saved (Acts 8:12-18; 18:8) Baptism provides Christians the opportunity to obey God’s Word and to go public with their faith. It is the initial step of Christian Discipleship and the initial means of identifying with Christ. We are excited to hear that you have come to faith in Christ and want to let others know that you are His disciple.
How to prepare for your baptism
1. Invite your friends and family to join you for this special occasion.
2. We will be sharing "live" testimonies, rather than pre-recording them. Prepare a short well developed one minute statement (please don't wing it!) of your faith or pick a favorite Bible verse of yours to share with the congregation. You may also want to briefly thank those who have been instrumental in your salvation. (If you write it out 1 minute spoken is around 100-150 words).
3. Bring a towel and modest, dark clothing to be baptized in. An area to change will be provided. Please note that you will be fully submerged in water.
4. Please bring your Bible to be signed by the person baptizing you. If you need a Bible one will be provided.
5. Pray that God would impact people's hearts through your baptism!
6. You will meet with a staff member or Elder at the end of the meeting to ask questions.
7. Consider who will baptize you. One of the pastors or staff would be happy to baptize you. Or you may choose another Christian who has been influential in your walk with Jesus.
How will you be baptized?
1. At the class you will learn how to enter the water, stand in the water and position your hands during the baptism.
2. During the service the pastor will share a few thoughts about Christian baptism with the congregation.
3. You will introduce yourself and you will be invited to read your prepared statement of faith or Bible verse. Please speak right into the microphone.
4. When you are in the water, you will be asked if you affirm the following questions:
#1 "Do you believe that Jesus is God’s anointed King, the one who was promised through the Scriptures?"
#2 – Do you believe that Jesus died for our sins and rose from the dead?
#3 – And are you committed to following Jesus no matter the cost, without conditions or excuses for the rest of your life?
5. You will be baptized in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
6. You will exit the water slowly and go back to the changing rooms.
A few questions for you...
Please note that photography and video recording will be in progress during baptism services, and choosing to participate signifies your release and consent to the possibility that your image may be used by Brookville Road Community Church for promotional purposes.
1. Complete this form.
2. Be sure to prepare your short written testimony or scripture verse
3. Attend the next baptism class on Sunday, December 8, at 12:30 (If you are under 18 please have a parent join you as well)
A meal will be provided at 12:30. Your submission of this form is your registration for the class and the meal.
We are excited to take part in this important moment in your walk with Christ and we are looking forward to seeing you at the baptism class!
