Baptism
is a command of Jesus Christ (see Matthew 28:19). Therefore, baptism is
not an option or up for negotiation. Christ said, "Why do you call me 'Lord, Lord' and
do not do what I say?" (Luke 6:46) So, our response to the Gospel is to obey Him
by being baptized. It is always better to obey sooner than later.
Baptism is God's will for you to publicly identify yourself as a Christian. Christ said in Matthew 10:32,
"Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my
Father in heaven."
Jesus was baptized
At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the
Jordan. As Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and
the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: "You are my
Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased." - Mark 1:9-11
Observations:
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We are to be like Jesus, following and imitating Him in every way.
If Christ submitted to baptism, we should follow His example.
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Our Heavenly Father was well pleased with Christ's baptism. He sent a
special annointing of the Holy Spirt upon Jesus at that time. It
prompted God to announce Christ's Sonship publicly. The Father is
likewise well pleased when we are baptized.
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According to Luke 3:21-23, Jesus was about 30 years old when he was baptized.
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Who is a candidate for baptism?
Those who BELIEVE in Jesus Christ. "... and many of the Corinthians
when they heard were believing and being baptized."
- Acts 18:8
Those who REPENT of their sins. "Repent, and let each one of you be baptized
in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins."
- Acts 2:38
Those who CONFESS Christ. At baptism, candidates confess aloud that Jesus is Lord.
- Romans 10:9
Because the New Testament teaches the pattern of "believe, repent,
and be baptized," we do not baptize infants or small children who are incapable of true
repentance. Further, Jesus said the Kingdom already belongs to little children
(Matthew 19:13,14).
At KACC, we do not baptize kids less than eight years old. For children ages
8-12, we have a Cross-Training class that explains the Gospel and Baptism. Please
contact the Children's Ministry department for the schedule and details.
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315 S. Knott Avenue