Why Should I Be Water Baptized?
Jesus commanded His followers to baptize new believers. In Matthew 28: 19-20, Jesus said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit ….” Since these were the final instructions Jesus gave his disciples before He ascended to heaven, we know this is important. Water baptism is not an optional afterthought, but a vital step in the life of every person who has a relationship with Christ. Through baptism, we demonstrate that we identify with Him and are now a member of God’s family.
When Should I Be Water Baptized?
In Scriptures such as Acts 2:34, 2:41, 8:12, and 10:47-48, it is evident that the act of water baptism came after an individual made a decision for Christ and not before. Water baptism is one of the first steps to be taken after committing your life to Christ. Even if you have been a follower of Christ for many years, but have not yet been baptized, it is still important to follow the Lord’s command to be baptized.
What About Baptism of Young Children?
We believe baptism is appropriate only for those who have made a personal and conscious decision to trust Christ for their salvation. If your child is of age where he or she is knowledgeable and aware of this important decision, then they should be baptized.
How Should I Be Water Baptized?
All examples of baptism in Scripture were by immersion in water, not sprinkling. Acts 8: 36-39, states that “Philip went down into the water…” In the account of Jesus’ baptism in Mark 1:12, the Scripture says, “And immediately coming up out of the water…” Baptism by immersion is the symbol of what happens spiritually to a believer. It signifies the complete death of the old nature as we go under the water, and the new life that is ours through the resurrection of Christ as we come up out of the water. Baptism by immersion is a picture of the complete cleansing of our sins. (Romans 6:4)
Is Water Baptism Essential for Salvation?
It does not determine our salvation. Our salvation is secured by the faith and belief in our hearts, not by an external work. The thief on the cross in Luke 23: 39-43, is an example of someone who believed in Jesus but didn’t have the opportunity to be baptized. Jesus told him, “…today you shall be with Me in Paradise.” He was obviously going to heaven without being baptized. However, this does not excuse us from baptism. As we become aware of the commands in Scripture, we are obligated to obey them as we have opportunity.
When are Baptism Services Held?
We provide the opportunity for water baptism on the first Saturday of every month. The baptism is held at Manatee Public Beach and is presided over by Pastor Vin or one of WOCIC’s staff ministers. Please see details below:
Where:
Manatee Public Beach – take Manatee Ave west until you reach the beach; park in parking lot at end of Manatee Ave. Proceed to the area where there are tables (to the left of parking lot). We will meet in that area.
Time:
Baptism begins at 8:00 am sharp. Please be at the beach no later than 7:50 am.
What to wear:
Men/boys – shorts/bathing suit and a t-shirt.
Women/girls – shorts and t-shirt over a bathing suit
All clothing should be modest; t-shirts should be a darker color without any writing or designs.
What to bring:
Towel and change of clothes. Ear plugs if needed.
There is a public bathroom at the beach where you can change out of your wet clothing.
You can find the Water Baptism application here.
