1. Jesus was Baptized (as an example): Matthew 3:15 (also Mark 1; Luke 3; John 1)
Note: John's Baptism goes beyond the ritual cleansing of the contemporary Jewish thought, he includes repentance and ethical demands.
2. Jesus Baptized (and modeled the practice): John 3:22ff, 4:1,2
3. Jesus taught about Baptism: Mark 10:38
4. Jesus Commanded to Baptize: Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:16
5. The Disciples Obeyed and Baptized:
In Jesus' Day (John 4:1,2)
Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:38ff)
Samaritans (Acts 8:12)
Philip and the Ethiopian (Acts 8:36)
Paul (Acts 9:18; 22:16)
Cornelius' Household (Acts 10:47)
Lydia and Household Acts 16:15)
Philippian Jailer (Acts 16:33)
Corinthians (I Corinthians 1:13-17)
The Ephesian 12 (Acts 19:5)
6. The Apostles Taught Baptism: Romans 6:1-14 (Personal Drama, Burial and Resurrection); Titus 3:4,5
Doctrinal points:
1. We do not accept Baptismal Regeneration
Note: the thief on the cross.
It is an outward profession of an inward cleansing
2. We practice "Adult Baptism".
Instead of "Infant" Baptism, we practice Baby Dedication
3. We practice Baptism by Immersion.
Rather than sprinkling or pouring.
Note: Jesus' example; the symbolism concerning burial and resurrection; baptism means "to dip"
Requirements:
Having been born again.
Being a disciple of Jesus.
Willing to make a public confession.
Have a basic understanding of its meaning.
Procedures
Prayer Preparation
Inviting Family and Friends (as a witness to them)
Testimony Preparation (write it, but not necessary to read it)
Clothing (to wear under robe if provided, and bring towel and plastic bag - no make-up)
Arrival Time (pre-service prayer in Prayer Room)
Worship (sit in front row)
Called by Name
Speak Testimony from the Pool
Questions to Answer
Confess that Jesus Christ is Lord?
Believe that He died and rose again?
Confessed your sins and accepted full and free forgiveness?
Renounce all evil and determine to faithfully live for Christ?
Act of Baptism (hold Pastor's arm, he'll hold your nose and tip you back)
Fellowship Following Service