Water Baptism?
Listed below are some frequently asked questions about water baptism. The answers below represent CCSB beliefs.
When should a person be baptized? Baptism should occur sometime after being 'born again', and not before. Some people have been baptized before they were actually saved due to ignorance or false teaching. Also, some were baptized as infants, and then later in life came into a personal relationship with Jesus.
Then they that gladly received his word were baptized; and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. Acts 2:41
Why should we be baptized? Because of our Lord's command.
Matthew 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.
Because water baptism was taught in the New Testament Epistles.
Colossians 2:12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.
Who can be baptized? Anyone who has sincerely believed in Jesus Christ for salvation.
Acts 8:36 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water; and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?
Acts. 8:37 And Philip said, If thou believeth with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.
It's not about having a perfect life, but rather having a perfect Savior. So, if you have believed in Jesus, then you may be baptized.
What do I wear to get baptized? Baptisms usually occur in a public or sometimes a private pool so we recommend a moderately styled bathing suit or shorts and a tee shirt be worn.
You will want to bring a towel. You can change into your baptism clothes prior to the baptism, and then change back to your other clothing afterwards.
Can children be baptized? We leave that up to the parents. As parents, you'll know of their relatiosship with God. If your children have believed, like in Acts 8:36-37, then they should be baptized. If they on the other hand, see it as just a thing to do, or because you are getting baptized, then you would want to wait until you are sure they have come to know Jesus Christ.
