What is Baptism?

The word baptism comes from the Greek word, baptizo, which means: to immerse or dip. The way that you immerse someone in what is not the emphasis, but our tradition is to fully submerge people underwater in what has often been called, believer’s baptism. But just going under the water doesn’t make you baptized. If I pushed you in the pool, that doesn’t count. Baptism is the public celebration of what God has done in someone’s life. To help us understand the meaning of baptism, we use the acronym DIP.

D – Declaration

First, baptism is a public declaration of the work that Jesus has done in your life, bringing you to faith in Him. Baptism is not a specific ritual that cleans you because of the steps you take in a certain order (1 Peter 3:21). Rather, it is the ceremony where we recognize that you have committed to following Jesus. 

I – Inauguration

Second, through baptism, you are marking and celebrating your inclusion into the family of God. Baptism doesn’t save you and it won’t necessarily bring you closer to God. But it is the celebration that you are a part of a larger community that you can call family (Acts 2:41). No need to work your way in or prove yourself. There’s no probation period. You are immediately and forever a member of the family of God. 

P – Participation

Lastly, when we are baptized, we are participating in the death and resurrection of Christ in such a real way that we truly are a new person (Romans 6:3-8). This union with him is a very real change. It’s like when a cucumber goes from vegetable to the pickle! It goes into the water with one identity and comes out with another.

Interested in being baptized?

If you are interested in being baptized, give some thought to these three questions:

  • Describe your faith journey and when you came to faith.
  • What difference has Jesus made in your life?
  • Why do you want to be baptized?

If you are interested in being baptized, want some help working through these three questions, or want to know more about baptism, talk with one of the pastors today. There is no better time than today!

I want to be baptized