What Is Baptism? This can be answered in several ways. First of all, baptism is an act of obedience that every new believer in Christ will want to take. Acts 2:37-41 tells us that on the very first day that Christian church came into existence, people asked the question, “What should we do to be saved?” The answer was, “Repent and be baptized.” In other words, we need to respond in obedience to God’s invitation to receive Christ and we should testify to that through baptism. Baptism is an act of identification with Christ. Jesus was baptized as He began His new ministry on earth. Our baptism as we begin our new life with Christ indicated to everyone that we have chosen to turn from sin and to follow Him.
Does Baptism Save Me? No, it does not. The Bible tells us that salvation comes to us as a free gift of God when we respond to Him by faith. No action that we take can save us (See Ephesians 2:9-10).
Baptism is an act of obedience and identification with Christ. It’s sort of like a wedding ring. You can marry and not wear a ring. You can even wear a ring and not be married. But when you stand before a minister and state your vows before God and exchange rings, those rings mean something and you are happy to wear yours. Baptism is not a private thing, rather it is going public with your faith.
I was baptized as an infant. Should I be baptized again? If you were baptized when you were a baby, it was a decision made by your parents. They were testifying to their belief that God’s grace would protect your soul until you reached an age at which you could decide to follow Christ yourself. When you make a deliberate decision to follow Christ as Savior and Lord, The decision to obey Christ through baptism is a statement of your faith, not your parents.
Will I actually be placed under water? Yes. We will very briefly immerse you in water and then lift you back out of the water. This reflects the beautiful image of Christ’s burial and resurrection. (See Romans 6:4)
Is there a minimum age for baptism? Not really. If a child is old enough to understand the significance of receiving Christ as Savior the child is old enough to be baptized. However, experience has taught us that many people who were baptized at a young age wish to be baptized again as an adult. They either don’t remember being baptized or they now have a much fuller concept of salvation. We’d be happy to talk to you about this and parents are strongly encouraged to attend the baptism informational meeting with their child.
How do I signup for the next baptism service?
Send us an email: pittsfieldassembly@gmail.com , call the church office at 217-285-4258 or message our Facebook page. A pastor will want to speak to you prior and answer any questions you may have.
When is the next baptism service? Currently we don't have one scheduled but reach out to us at pittsfieldassembly@gmail.com if you are interested!