What is it?
Water Baptism is much more than a religious exercise – it is an essential part of a Christian’s spiritual foundation. Water Baptism is a means for a believer to outwardly affirm and testify the inward commitment that they have made to Jesus Christ as the Lord and Savior of their life. Being immersed in the water is a symbol or reflection of Christ’s death, and the coming out of the water is a reflection or symbol of His resurrection. Water Baptism confirms and testifies that our old man (or old, sinful nature) has been crucified, and we rise to walk in our new, godly nature (Galatians 2:20, Romans 6:11).
Who should be Baptized?
All who have truly repented of their sins and have put their trust in Jesus Christ as the Lord and Savior of their lives are admonished to be Water Baptized (Mark 16:16, Acts 2:38, Acts 10:48).
Is Baptism necessary to be saved?
Absolutely not! Contrary to some beliefs, one’s salvation is not contingent on Water Baptism or any other religious ritual or sacrament. The Bible very clearly speaks to this in Ephesians 2:8-9, “8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”
It is an act of obedience to be Water Baptized, but clearly not necessary for salvation, as is exemplified in the account of the thief on the cross – he was not baptized, yet Jesus told him that because of his faith, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43)
When Should You Be Water Baptized?
A believer should be Water Baptized after they repent (or turn away) from their sins, and believe (completely trust) in Christ’s death and resurrection for their salvation. Children who are at an age/maturity level to fully understand what Baptism is, and who have repented and believe, can and should be baptized.
Infant Baptism
Shore Christian Fellowship does not practice infant baptism or sprinkling, as it is not taught anywhere in Scripture. We believe that it is necessary for a person to fully repent and believe before being baptized, neither of which an infant can do. Children who are at an age/maturity level to fully understand what Baptism is, and who have repented and believe, can and should be baptized.
How Can I Be Baptized?
If you desire to be Water Baptized, please contact the Elders to arrange a brief meeting and to schedule the baptism.
*Some excerpts used from Water Baptism by Christian Equippers International.