Baptism at Real Life Family Center • FAQ
What is Baptism?
Baptism is an external sign of an internal change. It marks the entrance of a believer into the church as a member of the Body of Christ. Baptism illustrates new life as a Christian. “This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT)Baptism doesn’t make you a believer — it shows that you already believe. Baptism does not “save” you, only your faith in
Christ does that. Baptism is like a wedding ring — it’s the outward symbol of the commitment you made in your heart. “God saved
you by His grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things
we have done, so none of us can boast about it.” Ephesians 2:8-9 (NLT)
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Why Get Baptized?
To follow the example set by Christ. “One day Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee, and John baptized Him in the Jordan River.” Mark 1:9 (NLT)Christ commands us to get baptized. “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you.” Matthew 28:19-20 (NLT)
It demonstrates that I am really a believer. “And we can be sure that we know Him if we obey His commandments.” 1 John 2:3 (NLT)Back to the top
Why Baptism by Immersion?
Christ was baptized by immersion.Every baptism in the Bible was by immersion.
The word “Baptize” means to dip under water, from the Greek word baptizo means which “to immerse or dip under water.”
It best symbolizes a burial and resurrection!
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Who Should Be Baptized?
Every person who has believed in Christ.Back to the top
Can Children Be baptized?
Some churches practice a “baptism of confirmation” for children. This ceremony is intended to be a covenant between the parents and God on behalf of the child. The parents promise to raise their child in the faith until the child is old enough to make his own personal confession of Christ. This custom began about 300 years after the Bible was completed. This is different from the baptism talked about in the Bible which was only for those old enough to believe. The purpose is to publicly confess your personal commitment to Christ.Back to the top
Can my family be baptized together?
Yes! If each family member understands fully the meaning of baptism, and each one has personally placed his/her trust in Christ for salvation, we encourage families to be baptized at the same time. It is a wonderful expression of commitment. Young children who wish to be baptized are asked to meet with our Children's Pastor for a pre-baptism conversation.
However, it is important to remember that baptism is a personal statement of faith, not a family tradition. It is usually not wise to delay your baptism while waiting for other family members to accept Christ, particularly children. This puts an undue pressure on them, and delays your obedience.Back to the top
What should I wear when I am baptized?
You should wear modest, nice clothes in good repair: dark pants and shirt, with no writing on them. Try to avoid white (see through when wet). Bring a change of clothes, a towel, and a plastic bag for your wet clothes. We provide changing rooms. You will receive an instruction sheet when you sign up. We will have an information session with one of our pastors prior to baptism.Back to the top
Who can baptize me?
All of our Pastors, ministry leaders, or members of the church can baptize.Back to the top
Will I have to say anything?
No. At the beginning of the baptism celebration, Pastor HR will briefly explain the meaning of baptism. You will wait for your turn to be baptized. The baptizer will introduce you, briefly lower you just under the water, and then you can leave the pool, dry off, and watch the others. You will receive a certificate of your baptism. We encourage you to invite all your relatives and friends to attend your baptism.Back to the top
What if I Have Special Needs?
All of our Pastors can perform a private baptism in special circumstances.Back to the top
How Can I Get More Information?
Please call Pastor Hilda Bishuti at 253-846-3875, extension 19, or email her at hildab@rlfc.org.Back to the top