Baptism
Baptism: A celebration of new life in Christ.
What does baptism mean?
Baptism is a symbolic act that represents the washing away of sin and the emergence of a new life in Christ. As believers, we follow the example set by Jesus, who was baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. In Matthew 3:16-17 (NIV), we read, "As soon as Jesus was baptized, 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 alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, 'This is my Son, whom I love; with him, I am well pleased.'"
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Through baptism, we publicly declare our faith in Jesus, acknowledging Him as the center of our lives. It is a symbolic burial of the old self and a resurrection into a new life of discipleship.
Who should be baptized?
We believe that baptism is a personal choice that follows a genuine commitment to Jesus Christ. We do not baptize infants; instead, they are dedicated to the church as an expression of the parents' commitment to raise them in the ways of the faith.
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If you are considering baptism, ask yourself these two important questions:
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Have I made a commitment to have Jesus be the center of my life? Baptism is a public declaration of your commitment to follow Jesus. It signifies a conscious decision to align your life with His teachings and to seek a transformative relationship with Him.
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Am I ready to publicly share this life change with my community? Baptism is a communal act, demonstrating that your faith is not a private matter but an integral part of your identity within the body of believers. It is an opportunity to share your journey and celebrate God's work in your life with your church community.
Why do we baptize?
Baptism is a commandment from Jesus (Matthew 28:19-20). In Romans 6:3-4, it symbolizes our identification with Christ's death and resurrection, signifying a new life. Acts 22:16 emphasizes its role in the forgiveness of sins and cleansing. Acts 2:38 highlights that through baptism, believers receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. At Creekside Church, we baptize as an obedient response to Christ's command, symbolizing a transformed life, forgiveness of sins, and the reception of the Holy Spirit.