This guide is provided for people considering Water Baptism.
Why Get Baptised
Jesus Himself was baptised with water at the beginning of his ministry (Mark 3:13-15, Luke 3:21). And he commanded us to be baptised with water (Matthew 28:19-20).
Being baptised with water is a demonstration of our obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ. It is a practical demonstration of a spiritual reality that has already taken place – “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 NIV
When to Get Baptised
A personal knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ is the only requirement for water baptism. When you received the Lord Jesus Christ by faith, you took part in his death, burial and resurrection. In other words, you became alive to God and a child of God (John 1:10 – 12). Water baptism simply signifies what has already taken place in your life (Romans 6: 1-5).
Philip the evangelist baptised the Ethiopian eunuch immediately after he received the gospel and Cornelius and his household were baptised with water after God poured out the Holy Spirit on them (read Acts 8: 26-40 and Acts 10:24-48).
Jesus was baptised with water at the very beginning of his early ministry (Matthew 3: 3-15). It is an act of obedience we should fulfill as soon as time and opportunity permit.
How to Get Baptised
Water baptism in the bible involves total immersion (or dipping) in water (Matthew 3:16, Acts 8: 38-39). A river, stream, bath or any body of water can all be suitable.
Your Pastor or even a mature Christian can perform the baptism.
When going for baptism it is important to bring a towel and fresh pair of cloths to change into.
Invite friends and family along to the event if possible. This is an excellent opportunity to share the gospel. Be prepared to share your testimony of how you became a Christian.
Come to your water baptism prepared to answer these questions in the affirmative.
1. Have you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Saviour?
2. Have you repented of your sins?
3. Have you decided to live your life for Jesus?
The person baptising you then says: “In the name of Jesus I baptise you in the name of the Father, of the Son and the Holy Spirit. Acts 10:46-48, Matthew 28:19