RAISED TO NEW LIFE

Baptisms

Baptism

Baptism is a symbol of identifying with Christ in his death and resurrection. We are lowered into the water and raised out as a visual representation of our new life as a follower of Jesus.

“Therefore we were buried with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too may walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in the likeness of his death, we will certainly also be in the likeness of his resurrection.”
Romans 6:4-5

Upcoming baptism date:

November 20

ADULT BAPTISM INTEREST FORM (18+)

STUDENT BAPTISM INTEREST FORM (Grades 6-12)

“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.” Matthew 28:19

Hear from our Senior Pastor about baptism and why you should take this step.

Baptism FAQ

WHAT IS THE MEANING OF BAPTISM?

Baptism is a symbol of Christ’s burial and resurrection. “having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead.” (Colossians 2:12).
Baptism is a symbol of your new life as a Christian. “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” (Romans 6:4)
Baptism does not save you; only your faith in Christ does that. “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Baptism is a sign of the work God has done in you, and, like a wedding ring, is an outward symbol of your on-going heart commitment to live as a follower of Jesus, making him the highest authority in your life.

HOW ARE WE BAPTIZED?

We follow the example Jesus set for us when He was baptized by John the Baptist (Matthew 3:13-17).
Every baptism in the Bible was done by means of immersion under water. An example of this is found in Acts 8:38-39, where Philip baptized the Ethiopian eunuch.
The Greek word that is translated as “baptize” means to submerge, or to dip under water; this is in contrast to another Greek word, which means “to sprinkle.” Therefore, we understand that baptism is done by full immersion in water.

WHO SHOULD BE BAPTIZED?

Every believer who has accepted Jesus Christ as their personal savior should be baptized (Acts 2:38; Col. 2:12)

WHAT ABOUT CHILDREN?

Many children, especially after learning about baptism or seeing a baptism service, desire to be baptized. This is a wonderful desire, and we encourage children to continue to take strides in their faith. At the same time, it is very important for a child to understand what baptism is and to show a desire to live for Jesus. Because of this, we typically don’t baptize children until they are at least 13 years old. Parents with questions about baptism for their children should contact our team at baptism@blackrock.org.

SHOULD WE BE BAPTIZED TWICE?

Many people were baptized prior to accepting Christ as Savior, whether this was through infant baptism, or simply because they did not fully understand the significance of this action. If you have become a follower of Jesus since your first baptism, we encourage you to be baptized again, and fully support you in this!

WHEN SHOULD I BE BAPTIZED?

Baptism is a sacred milestone marking your new life as a Christ-follower. Intended as a public declaration of your faith in Jesus, we encourage you to be baptized in front of your Black Rock Church family, under the authority of your pastor, at the earliest baptism service opportunity after accepting Jesus Christ as your personal Savior.

I'M Not sure if I should BE BAPTIZED.

Not sure if you are ready for baptism or want to learn more? Contact baptism@blackrock.org and we would be happy to talk you through making that decision.