Baptism

BAPTISM

Recently Got Saved? Want to Get A Fully Submerged Baptism? ALL ARE WELCOME

Next Scheduled Baptisms:

September 13, 2024 at 5pm, Baptism on the Beach, location: Woodlawn Beach State Park, 3580 Lake Shore Rd, Blasdell, NY 14219 [ google map ]

Michael Matesic – Baptism Teaching (Sept 4, 2024)

Bread of Life Church, 1638 South Park Ave, Buffalo, NY 14220 | 716-827-7866 | http://www.bolbuffalo.org 

Quick reference for more information on Baptism soon.

Recently Got Saved? Want to Get A Fully Submerged Baptism? ALL ARE WELCOME to Join us Friday the 13th of September for “Baptisms at the Beach.” All levels of faith in Jesus Christ and Christian denominations are welcomed.

An online class on what it means to be baptized will be provided prior to the event. Certificates will be given by the Bread of Life Church in South Buffalo the following Sunday Morning, Sept 15th.

Baptisms at the Beach, Friday September 13, 2024, 5pm at Woodlawn Beach State Park, 3580 Lake Shore Rd, Blasdell, NY 14219

 

Water baptism is a significant practice in Christianity, symbolizing a believer’s public declaration of faith and identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Here’s a breakdown of key points to include in a teaching lesson on water baptism:

1. What is Water Baptism?

  • Definition: Baptism comes from the Greek word baptizo, meaning “to immerse” or “submerge.” It involves the complete immersion of a person in water as an outward demonstration of inward faith.
  • Purpose: It symbolizes cleansing from sin and a commitment to follow Christ.

Scripture References:

  • Matthew 28:19: “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”
  • Acts 2:38: “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.”

2. The Symbolism of Baptism

  • Identification with Christ’s Death and Resurrection: When a person is submerged in water, it symbolizes dying to sin (Romans 6:3-4). Coming out of the water represents new life and resurrection in Christ.
  • Washing Away of Sins: While the physical act doesn’t save a person, it symbolizes the cleansing power of Christ’s blood and the washing away of sin (Acts 22:16).

3. Baptism as a Public Confession

  • Declaration of Faith: Baptism is a public testimony that you have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. It’s a proclamation of faith before God and the community.
  • Joining the Body of Christ: Through baptism, believers are united with other Christians in the global Church.

Scripture References:

  • Galatians 3:27: “For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.”
  • 1 Corinthians 12:13: “For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body.”

4. Who Should Be Baptized?

  • Believers: Only those who have repented of their sins and placed their faith in Jesus Christ should be baptized. It’s an act of obedience after salvation.
  • Understanding: Baptism requires an understanding of its significance. Many churches practice believer’s baptism, meaning that those who are of age to understand their decision are baptized (Acts 8:36-38).

5. The Mode of Baptism

  • Immersion: Most Christian denominations practice full immersion as it best reflects the biblical meaning of the word and the symbolism of burial and resurrection (Romans 6:4).
  • Variations: Some churches, due to tradition or circumstance, may practice sprinkling or pouring, but the primary biblical example is immersion.

6. The Role of Baptism in Salvation

  • Not for Salvation: While important, baptism does not save a person. It is an act of obedience that follows salvation by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).
  • Symbol, Not Means of Grace: It’s a powerful symbol of the believer’s new life in Christ but not the means of achieving it. Salvation is through faith alone (Titus 3:5).

7. Biblical Examples of Baptism

  • Jesus’ Baptism: Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist as an example of obedience and humility (Matthew 3:13-17). His baptism marked the beginning of His public ministry.
  • Early Church: The early Christians regularly baptized new believers after they professed faith in Christ (Acts 2:41, Acts 8:36-38).

8. Practical Aspects of Water Baptism

  • Where to Baptize: While many churches have baptismal pools, bodies of water like rivers, lakes, and oceans are often used, echoing early Christian practices (e.g., Jesus was baptized in the Jordan River).
  • When to Baptize: Baptism can occur anytime a believer is ready, although many churches hold special services or events for this purpose.

9. How to Prepare for Baptism

  • Understanding: Ensure the individual understands the purpose and significance of baptism.
  • Testimony: Some churches encourage the person to share a brief testimony of their faith journey.
  • Mentorship: Consider offering a pre-baptism class or one-on-one discipleship to discuss the meaning of baptism and what comes next in their faith journey.

10. After Baptism: Walking in Newness of Life

  • A New Beginning: Baptism marks the start of a new chapter, not the end of spiritual growth. Discipleship, Bible study, prayer, and community are essential to continue growing in faith (Colossians 2:6).
  • Living Out Faith: Baptism symbolizes the decision to live for Christ daily, relying on His Spirit for strength and guidance (Galatians 2:20).

Summary

Water baptism is a vital practice for Christians, serving as a public expression of faith and identification with Christ. While it doesn’t grant salvation, it is an important step of obedience, symbolizing spiritual transformation and new life. Encourage believers to see baptism as a powerful, symbolic act that connects them to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus and the broader Christian community.

If you need specific teaching resources or a guide for a particular audience, let me know!

Bread of Life Church, 1638 South Park Ave, Buffalo, NY 14220 | 716-827-7866 | http://www.bolbuffalo.org