Following Jesus

Baptism

Baptism is the first step of obedience for a Christian and a public picture of new life in Jesus Christ.

At First Baptist Church of Kingstowne, we believe baptism is an important step of obedience for every believer in Jesus Christ.

Baptism does not save us. Salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone. Baptism is a public testimony that a person has already trusted Christ as Savior and desires to follow Him.

Baptism is an outward picture of an inward change.

What Is Baptism?

Baptism is a public identification with Jesus Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection.

A Step of Obedience

Following the command of Christ

Baptism is the first step of obedience in the life of a Christian. Jesus commanded His followers to make disciples and baptize them.

Matthew 28:18–20 “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you...”

A Public Identification

United with Christ

Baptism publicly identifies a believer with Jesus Christ. It pictures His death, burial, and resurrection, and shows that the believer has new life in Him.

Romans 6:3–4 “Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death... even so we also should walk in newness of life.”

A Symbol of New Life

Not salvation, but testimony

Baptism does not bring salvation. It symbolizes the new life a believer has already received through faith in Jesus Christ.

Romans 6:5-6 "For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin."

Why Should I Be Baptized?

Baptism is not something we do to earn salvation. It is something we do because we have been saved. It is a public declaration that we belong to Jesus Christ.

Much like a wedding ring does not make someone married, but shows that they are married, baptism does not make someone a Christian. It shows that a person has trusted Christ and now desires to follow Him.

Acts 2:41 “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.”

Who Should Be Baptized?

Baptism is for those who have personally trusted Jesus Christ as Savior.

Before baptism, a person should understand the gospel, have a clear testimony of salvation, and desire to publicly identify with Christ and follow Him in obedience.

If you have questions about salvation or whether you are ready to be baptized, one of our pastors would be glad to talk with you.

How Can I Be Baptized?

We would love to help you take this important next step of obedience.

1. Let Us Know

Respond during the invitation at the end of one of our services or speak with one of our pastors after the service.

2. Talk with a Pastor

We will talk with you about your testimony, answer your questions, and help you understand the meaning of baptism.

3. Schedule Baptism

Once you are ready, we will schedule your baptism and help you prepare for that special day.

Baptism and Membership

Baptism is closely connected to discipleship and church life.

Salvation Comes First

Baptism follows a personal decision to trust Jesus Christ as Savior. It is not a replacement for salvation.

Baptism Is a Public Testimony

Through baptism, a believer publicly identifies with Christ and declares that they desire to walk in newness of life.

Baptism Is a Step Toward Church Life

Baptism is an important part of following Christ and walking with a local church family.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you have trusted Jesus Christ as your Savior and would like to be baptized, we would be glad to talk with you and help you take this step of obedience.