WATER BAPTISM
WATER BAPTISM FAQ'S
How do I know if I am a candidate for Baptism?
Water Baptism is available for all those that proclaim Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. (Romans 10:9)
Why should I be baptized?
In the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) Jesus said, “Go into the world preaching the Gospel, making disciples and baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.” In Mark 1 and Matthew 3, Jesus Himself was baptized and commands His disciples to follow Him in water baptism.
Is baptism required for salvation?
No. Water baptism is an act of obedience after a person has received the forgiveness of God. We should be baptized as soon as possible but is not required to receive the forgiveness of God.
Why am I baptized in the name of the Trinity?
Jesus told us Himself (Matthew 28:19-20) to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
Am I joining this church?
No. Membership of Green Bay First is not granted through baptism.
I was baptized as a child, should I be re-baptized?
It is highly recommended. Baptism is for followers of Jesus Christ after they have chosen to make Him their Lord and Savior. If you were baptized before you understood the significance of your commitment, you should be re-baptized.
Can I have my child baptized?
Yes, however, we do not baptize infants. Baptism MUST be a personal choice and not a display or show for others. A child must understand the importance of the decision they are making and be able to articulate their choice and reason for baptism. Parents often request to have their child baptized for their own desire to witness a wonderful event in their child’s life, which is an invalid reason. Baptism is NOT salvation. Baptism is to happen after a person knowingly understands the sacrifice of Christ.
How many times can I be baptized?
There is no limit to water baptism; many people choose to be baptized after a recommitment is made or after they experience a new level in their relationship with God. Baptism, however, should be revered and not done lightly, you should not choose to be re-baptized in order to be baptized by a “special person” or because you changed churches.
What will happen during water baptism?
You will be completely immersed, backwards into water, getting fully wet. The pastor will say these words; “By the profession of your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, I now baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Then the pastor will slowly lay you backwards in the water, dunking your head, and then bring you out of the water.
Do I have to be fully immersed underwater?
Yes. Colossians 2:12 states that baptism symbolizes our being buried with Christ, dying in the flesh (going underwater) and then being raised with Him as we are born again (coming up out of the water).