Get Baptized!
Baptism is in outward expression of an inward decision.
If you are interested in getting baptized, you can sign up using the form below by providing your name, contact information, and any other required details. Once you have submitted the form, you will be contacted by our church with more information!
Christian baptism by immersion is chosen by individuals for various reasons, often rooted in theological beliefs, personal convictions, and symbolic significance. Here are some common reasons why individuals choose baptism by immersion:
Scriptural Basis:
Many Christian denominations and believers interpret certain biblical passages, such as the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River (Matthew 3:13-17), as indicating immersion as the mode of baptism. This scriptural basis leads them to choose immersion in adherence to what they believe is the biblical model.
Symbolism of Death and Resurrection:
Baptism by immersion is seen as symbolizing the death and burial of the old self and the resurrection to new life in Christ. The immersion into the water represents the burial of the old sinful nature, and rising from the water symbolizes a new life in Christ.
Identification with Christ:
Immersion is often viewed as a way to identify with the experience of Jesus. Just as Jesus was immersed in the Jordan River by John the Baptist, individuals who choose baptism by immersion see it as a way of participating in a similar act of obedience and identification with Christ.
Purification Symbolism:
Immersion is seen as a symbol of cleansing and purification. The act of going under the water is associated with washing away sins and emerging from the water symbolizes a purified and forgiven life.
Symbol of Unity:
For some Christians, immersion is seen as a unifying symbol among believers. It is a shared practice that helps create a sense of unity and common identity within the faith community.
Obedience to Christ's Command:
Many Christians view baptism as a commandment given by Jesus in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). Those who choose immersion see it as a direct response to Christ's instruction to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Regardless of why you choose to be baptized, baptism is an outward expression of an inward reality. If you are interested in being baptized, contact us using the form above or email info@gracechurchabq.org to connect with someone about baptism directly.
The Walk of Faith and the Importance of Proclaiming Your Faith Publicly Through Baptism
The Christian faith is not just a set of beliefs; it’s a journey that transforms the believer’s life through relationship with Jesus Christ. This journey, often referred to as the “walk of faith,” involves a daily commitment to live according to God’s Word, seek His guidance, and grow in spiritual maturity. It’s a process of learning to trust God in all circumstances, surrendering one’s life to His will, and actively living out the principles of love, grace, and truth that Jesus modeled during His time on earth.
At the heart of the walk of faith is a personal relationship with Jesus. It begins with the moment of salvation, where an individual acknowledges their need for a Savior, repents of their sins, and places their trust in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. This step marks the beginning of a lifelong journey of transformation. However, the walk of faith is not meant to be a solitary one. The New Testament often emphasizes the importance of community, fellowship, and mutual support among believers. As we walk by faith, we are called to do so with others in a community of faith, encouraging and holding each other accountable in our walk.
One of the most significant moments in a believer's walk of faith is proclaiming that faith publicly. This proclamation is most often made through the act of baptism, a symbolic and powerful expression of one's commitment to Jesus Christ. Baptism is a visible representation of what has already taken place in the heart of a believer—the death to an old way of life, the burial of the sinful nature, and the resurrection to new life in Christ.
Baptism, as outlined in Scripture, serves as an outward sign of an inward transformation. In Matthew 28:19, Jesus commands His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.” Through baptism, believers publicly declare their allegiance to Christ and identify with His death, burial, and resurrection. It’s not just a ritual; it is a profound testimony of faith, signaling to the world that the believer has chosen to follow Jesus.
For many, baptism is an incredibly meaningful step in their spiritual journey. It represents the believer’s desire to publicly align with Christ and His work of salvation. Baptism also provides an opportunity for the church community to celebrate and support the individual in their new life in Christ. This public declaration of faith serves as a powerful witness to others, inviting them to experience the same grace and transformation that baptism symbolizes.
In summary, the walk of faith is a continual journey of growth, trust, and commitment to Jesus Christ. Baptism serves as a pivotal moment in that journey, providing an opportunity for believers to publicly proclaim their faith, identify with Christ’s work, and become part of the larger community of faith. It is both an act of obedience to God’s command and a profound testimony of the life-changing power of the gospel.