1. To follow the example set by Christ. “At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan.” (Mark 1:9)
2. Because Christ commanded it. “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19–20) 3. It demonstrates I am a Believer. “We know that we have come to know him if we obey his commands.
WHAT IS THE MEANING OF BAPTISM? It illustrates Christ's death, burial and resurrection. “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day...” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4) “Having been buried with him in baptism and raised with him through your faith in the power of God, who raised him from the dead.” (Colossians 2:12)
WHO SHOULD BE BAPTIZED?
Every person who believes and has accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior should be baptized. Believers realize their sin separates them from God. They conclude that Jesus Christ’s death on the cross bridges the gap between them and God. Having decided to trust Christ alone for their salvation, they follow Christ in baptism as a symbol of their new life in Christ. WHAT ABOUT CHILDREN?
The New Testament shows no example of baptism when the person did not request it. All instances of baptism follow an individual’s decision to trust Christ alone for their salvation (Acts 2:41, 8:12, 10:47–48). At Kingdom Empowerment we wait until the child is old enough to believe and understand the true meaning of baptism before we baptize them. When a child makes a decision for Christ, we gladly baptize them as a symbol of their faith in Christ.
WHAT DO I WEAR?
Dress in clothes you don’t mind getting wet! All people getting baptized will wear a dark shirt, shorts and 2 towels. Also, bring a plastic bag for wet clothing. Remember to bring a change of clothes to wear home. Arrive 30 minutes before the service is scheduled to begin for some last-minute instructions.