The Meaning of Baptism

1. It is a symbol of Jesus' burial and resurrection
“Christ died for our sins... He was buried...and He rose again.” 1 Cor. 15:3-4

“For when you are baptized , you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ. Col. 2:12

2. It is a symbol of your new life as a Christian
“When someone becomes a Christian he becomes a brand new person inside. The old life has passed away and a new life has begun!” 2 Cor. 5:17

“ By our baptism then , we were buried with Him and shared His death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead...so also we may live a new life !” Rom. 6:4

Baptism doesn't make you a believer — it shows that you already believe . Baptism does not save you, only your faith in Christ does that. Baptism is like a wedding ring — it's the outward symbol of the commitment you made in your heart.

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith ...it is the gift of God — not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

How Are We To Be Baptized?

1. Like Jesus was baptized – by being immersed by water
“As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water.” Matthew 3:16

2. Every baptism in the Bible was by immersion under water
(Example) “...then both Philip and the man went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water...” Acts 8:38-39

3. The word “Baptize” literally means “to dip under water.”
The Greek word baptizo means, “ to immerse or dip under water.”

4. It best symbolizes a burial and resurrection!

The founders of denominations agree…

Martin Luther... “I would have those who are to be baptized to be entirely immersed, as the word imports and the mystery signifies.”

John Calvin... “The word ‘baptize' signifies to immerse. It is certain that immersion was the practice of the ancient church.”

John Wesley… “Buried with Him, alludes to baptizing by immersion according to the custom of the first church.”

Who Should Be Baptized?

Every person who has believed in Christ
“ Those who believed and accepted His message were baptized ...” Acts 2:41

“But when they believed Philip as he preached the Good News...and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized , both men and women.” Acts 8:12

“Simon himself believed and was baptized ...” Acts 8:13

When Should I Be Baptized?

As soon as you have believed! Don't delay.
“Those who believed...were baptized... that day !” Acts 2:41

“Then Philip began with the scripture and told him the Good News about Jesus. As they traveled along the road, they came to some water, and the man said, ‘Look, here is water! Why shouldn't I be baptized right now?' Philip said, ‘If you believe with all your heart, you may.' The man answered, ‘I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.' So they went down into the water and Philip baptized him.” Acts 8:35-38

There is no reason to delay. As soon as you have decided to receive Christ into your life, you can and should be baptized.

What about being baptized twice?

We recommend that you be baptized again if you have not been baptized by immersion since you became a believer. It doesn't lessen your previous experience. But it reflects your desire to be baptized in the same way Jesus was. Every TCC member has been baptized by immersion as Jesus demonstrated and commanded us to be.

Can my family be baptized together?

Yes! If each family member understands fully the meaning of baptism, and each one has personally placed his/her trust in Christ for salvation, we encourage families to be baptized at the same time. It is a wonderful expression of commitment.

However, it is important to remember that baptism is a personal statement of faith, not a family tradition. It is usually not wise to delay your baptism while waiting on other family members to accept Christ, particularly children. This puts an undue pressure on them, and delays your obedience.

Will I have to say anything?

No. Our pastor will briefly explain the meaning of baptism. You will wait at the edge of the river or baptistry for your turn to be baptized. You will be introduced, briefly lowered just under the water, and then you can leave the pool, dry off, or watch the others. Later you will be mailed a certificate of your baptism. We encourage you to invite all your relatives and friends to attend your baptism.

What should I wear when I am baptized?

Women can wear a swim suit with shorts and a top (or a cover-up) over the swim suit. Men may wear a swimsuit and a plain t-shirt. Bring a change of clothes, a towel, and a plastic bag for your wet clothes. You can change in the restroom. You also may want to bring a hair dryer.

Don't be surprised when people clap at your baptism. It is a happy experience for every Christian when someone publicly identifies him/herself as a follower of Jesus by being baptized.

Your baptism certificate will be mailed to you.

God will bless you as you demonstrate your faith in Christ!

Baptism is a time for us to celebrate life change. If you have a relationship with Jesus Christ, but have never taken the “first step of obedience” through baptism by immersion, then we invite you to be baptized.