Learn About Baptism

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the
name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit ….” Matt 28:19-20
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Upcoming Baptisms:

PLEASE CALL OUR OFFICE FOR NEXT BAPTISM DATE: (253) 859-0832

Class at 5:00 PM in Room 115
Baptisms are held at the church during 6PM service.

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• Are You Interested in Becoming Water Baptized?
• Do You Understand Water Baptism?

This page is sure to help ease any fears or uncertainties about the joyful and fulfilling experience of baptism. If you have further questions, please call our church office at 253-859-0832.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Baptism

Water baptism is an initial step of obedience in the life of a Christian. When taking this important step, several questions may come up which we hope to answer here.
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Why Should I Be Water Baptized?

Jesus commanded His followers to baptize new believers. In Matthew 28: 19-20, Jesus said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit ….” Since these were the final instructions Jesus gave his disciples before He ascended to heaven, we know this is important. Water baptism is not an optional afterthought, but a vital step in the life of every person who has a relationship with Christ. Through baptism, we demonstrate that we identify with Him and are now a member of God’s family.
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When Should I Be Water Baptized?

In Scriptures such as Acts 2:34, 2:41, 8:12, and 10:47-48, it is evident that the act of water baptism came after an individual made a decision for Christ and not before. Water baptism is one of the first steps to be taken after committing your life to Christ. Even if you have been a follower of Christ for many years, but have not yet been baptized, it is still important to follow the Lord’s command to be baptized.
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What About Baptism of Young Children?

If the purpose of baptism is to publicly identify as a new believer in Jesus Christ, why are so many people baptized at early ages? In the Bible, we find parents bringing their children to Jesus. He held them, prayed for them, and told his disciples to welcome them. But there is no record of Him baptizing infants, nor did He tell anyone else to baptize them. We believe baptism is appropriate only for those who have made a personal and conscious decision to trust Christ for their salvation.
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How Should I Be Water Baptized?

All examples of baptism in Scripture were by immersion in water, not sprinkling. Acts 8: 36-39, states that “Philip went down into the water…” In the account of Jesus’ baptism in Mark 1:12, the Scripture says, “And immediately coming up out of the water…” Baptism by immersion is the symbol of what happens spiritually to a believer. It signifies the complete death of the old nature as we go under the water, and the new life that is ours through the resurrection of Christ as we come up out of the water. Baptism by immersion is a picture of the complete cleansing of our sins. (Ref. Romans 6:4)
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Is Water Baptism Essential for Salvation?

It does not determine our salvation. Our salvation is secured by the faith and belief in our hearts, not by an external work. The thief on the cross in Luke 23: 39-43, is an example of someone who believed in Jesus but didn’t have the opportunity to be baptized. Jesus told him, “…today you shall be with Me in Paradise.” He was obviously going to heaven without being baptized. However, this does not excuse us from baptism. As we become aware of the commands in Scripture, we are obligated to obey them as we have opportunity.

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When are Baptism Services Held?

Water baptism is celebrated several times throughout the year at River of Life Fellowship. Watch announcements in the bulletin for actual dates of future baptism services. In the meantime, please complete the form in this brochure and return it to the Information Center and we will schedule you for the next available baptism service.

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We Invite You To REAL LIFE Discipleship Classes

We encourage you to attend our REAL LIFE Discipleship classes. This strategically designed series will give you a better understanding of Christianity as it provides you the tools to grow spiritually. Get more details at our Information Center, or contact Pastor Bill Bochsler.