Baptism

About Baptism

“By our baptism then we were buried with him and shared his death, in order that just as Christ was raised from the dead also we might live a new life!” (Romans 6:4)

Baptism is cause for celebration! That’s because baptism is your first public profession of faith. It’s a way to show that you’ve accepted Christ. In the same way a wedding ring is used as a symbol of a deep and lasting commitment to a spouse, baptism is a symbol of a deep and lasting relationship with God. If you haven’t been baptized as an adult, we encourage you to not wait another day. Come out and acknowledge God’s love, grace and goodness in your life!

Following are some answers to questions you might have about baptism along with what to expect at your baptism.

What Is The Meaning of Baptism?

• It is a symbol of Christ’s burial and resurrection. (1 Corinthians 15:3-4)
• It is a symbol of your new life as a Christian. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
• Baptism does not make you a believer; it shows that you already are one! Baptism does not save you; only your faith in Christ does that.
• We teach people to expect to live in a “newness” of life following baptism. (Romans 6:4)

Why Be Baptized?

• Because you want to follow Christ’s example. (Mark 1:9)
• Because Christ commanded it. (Matthew 28:19:20)
• Because it shows you are a believer. (Acts 18:8)
• Because obeying Christ’s command shows you know him. (1 John 2:3)

Who Should Be Baptized?

Every person who believes in Christ and has made the decision to follow him. (Acts 2:41)

The one requirement for baptism is belief in Christ. Therefore, at Lake Hills Community Church, we do not baptize children until they are old enough to understand and believe.

When Are We To Be Baptized?

As soon as a person decides to believe in Christ, he or she can and should be baptized. (Acts 2:41)

How Are We To Be Baptized?

Like Jesus was baptized – by being immersed under water. (Matt. 3:16)  Every baptism described in the Bible was by immersion under water. In fact, that’s what baptize literally means. The Greek word “baptizo” means “to immerse or dip under water.” The act of lowering someone beneath water, then lifting them back up to life-sustaining air is a way to picture a burial and resurrection.

Your Baptism

The first step was to contact us saying you want to be baptized. You can do that by using the Connection Card included in our bulletin during our weekend services, by email, through our Facebook page, by calling the church at 573-552-4182, or by simply writing in the comments section below.

Baptisms are scheduled as needed throughout the year at Lake Hills Community Church. Upcoming dates are announced in the bulletin during our weekend services, via email and on our Facebook page. There will probably be others baptized during the same service, and we have baptized many people just like yourself – so there’s no need to feel nervous. You’re in good hands!

Prior to your baptism date, you will be invited to meet with pastor Mike after church on a specified Sunday to learn all the details such as what to wear, when and where to meet, etc.  We will try to answer all your questions and be helpful to you as you follow the Lord’s command to be baptized.  And then on your baptism day, other members of our church will be there to accompany you every step of the way. T-shirts, shorts and towels are provided for your convenience if needed. Otherwise, you’ll want to plan on bringing those items.

When it’s time, you will enter the water and state your name and proclaim you are a Christ-follower. Then the pastor or person who is baptizing you will say a few words, ask you 3 simple questions to which you will respond,  and then you will be lowered just under the water. Don’t be surprised if people clap at your baptism. It is a very happy experience for every Christian when someone publicly declares they are a believer by being baptized!

Some people ask if a family or friends can be baptized together. The answer is yes, if each family member or friend understands fully the meaning of baptism and each one has personally placed his or her trust in Christ for salvation. In fact, we encourage families to be baptized at the same time. It is a wonderful expression of commitment.

If you still have questions or concerns about salvation and baptism and would like to talk one-on-one with a pastor, simply contact us in any of the ways mentioned above.

Your Questions Welcomed!

These are some of the most common questions that we typically address when we meet together to discuss baptism:

What is the meaning and purpose of baptism?
Will I have to say anything?
When should I be baptized?
Who should get baptized?
Why be baptized by immersion?
What about infant Baptism?
What is an appropriate age for baptism?
Does it matter where I’m baptized or who baptizes me?
Am I not a Christian if I don’t get baptized?
Will I not go to heaven if I am not baptized?
Can I or should I be re-baptized?
What if I was baptized at another church? Does my baptism still count?
Do I have to live a perfect life once I’m baptized?
What’s the difference between water baptism and the baptism of the Holy Spirit?
What does it mean to be “baptized for the dead?” Is that Biblical?
Can my family and friends be baptized together?
What should I wear when I am baptized?