What is baptism? 

Baptism pictures the death, burial, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ (Rom 6:4-5). This baptism differs from the Spirit baptism that Jesus gives upon salvation (Luke 3:16). Though baptism does not save us from our sins, it serves as an essential part of the Christian faith in which the Christian confesses faith in the Triune God (Matt 28:19). Baptism incorporates the Christian into the body of Christ (Acts 2:41). Baptism serves as a pledge to live according to the Word of God (1 Pet 3:21) and to live in the power of the gospel (Col 2:12). Ideally, a person should only be baptized once. 

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Why should someone be baptized? 

Christians should pursue baptism for three reasons. First, the Lord commands all those who have repented from their sin and placed their faith in Christ to be baptized. Second, baptism gives public testimony to salvation already received. Third, in baptism we commit to Christ’s bride, the church. Each of these components—obedience, testimony, and commitment to the church—are essential features of the Christian life.

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When should baptism occur? 

The Bible does not explicitly say when baptism should occur. At CBC, we do not baptize babies but we do believe that God saves people of all ages, children included (Matt 19:14). It is best to baptize someone soon after they express faith in Christ, though there may be reasons to be cautious about administering and being baptized.

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How should baptism be administered? 

Baptism is best administered by immersion. This fits the biblical pattern (Matt 3:16; Acts 8:39) and best symbolizes the gospel (Rom 6:4-5; Col 2:12).  

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How should I pursue baptism at CBC? 

Those who desire to be baptized should visit with the pastor and/or an elder to set a time to share their testimony with them of what Christ has done in their lives. The elders encourage, though do not require, those who desire baptism to give public testimony in church of what Christ has done for them.