Baptism
We are thrilled that you are interested in participating in baptism!
As you prepare for your baptism, the following information might be helpful:
Read this full page. We think it will help you understand:
• What baptism is and isn’t.
• What to expect on the day of your baptism.Spend some time reading these Bible passages about baptism.
Schedule your baptism day ASAP, and invite your friends and family to celebrate with you.
Practicals of Baptism
WHAT DOES BAPTISM LOOK LIKE?
The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?” Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus. As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, “Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?” And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. (Acts 8:34-38)
Baptism by immersion is what was practiced in the early church and best symbolizes our sharing in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as discussed the meaning of baptism as shown in passages such as Romans 6:2-4.
Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
On the day of your baptism, you'll walk into the water. A leader in your microchurch or one of the elders of the KC Underground will lay you back in the water. Why? Because you have died to the old life. The old life of serving self and sin...you are buried to the old way of life. But then, you're brought back up, into the sunlight and the fresh clean air. You've been washed clean, made new. In Christ. In the light of the Son and in the wind of the Spirit. As you go under, you identify with Jesus in his death and burial. As you come up, you identify with him in the Resurrection.
Ultimately, the mode of baptism is not the main issue; it’s the meaning behind baptism that is the main issue. On occasion, we would pour or sprinkle. If there is a condition that would prohibit immersion, that's fine!
WHO SHOULD BE BAPTIZED?
38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”Acts 2:38)
“They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” 32 Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house. 33 At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his household were baptized. (Acts 16:31-33)
The simple answer is, “all who believe.” The KC Underground encourages any believer who has not yet participated in baptism, as a knowing symbol of their personal faith, to be baptized by immersion.
Should we baptize infants or is it more appropriate to baptize those who are mature enough to make the faith decision?
Every baptism in the book of Acts (except one) mentions that when an adult is baptized, his/her entire household is also baptized. It is highly probable that within all those examples, there were young children or babies represented. Baptism, according to the examples in the Bible, is about personal repentance/belief in Jesus, as well as declaring a new allegiance for entire families and networks. Therefore, in regards to infant baptism, we respect people on both sides of the fence. If you want to be baptized as an individual, that is great! (Acts 8:26-40). But if you want to include your entire household, that is great too! (Acts 10:39-48, Acts 16:15, Acts 16:33)
What if I was baptized as a child but want to be baptized again?
It is quite common to hear a new disciple of Jesus say, “I was raised in such and such tradition. Then I left the faith. Later, I met Jesus personally, this changed my life. I was baptized as an infant, but I feel the need to declare my faith in Jesus. So, I’m going to be baptized.”
This adult baptism is not a repudiation of a baptism that may of taken place in their life as a child. It is simply a way of saying that “as an adult, fully engaged and making my own personal choice, I choose Jesus.”
If you are a believer, you are ready to be baptized. Just as a bride and groom symbolize their love for one another with rings, you can show the world your union with Christ through the symbol of baptism.
Discovery Bible Study • Baptism
Logistics of Baptism
Invite friends and family! Baptism is something to celebrate!
Bring a towel, a swimsuit (and shirt/shorts to wear over the swimsuit), and clothes to change into afterward.
Share your story! Have time to tell people why you have chosen to get baptized and to follow Jesus.
You will be asked these questions, for each you respond with, “Yes!”
• Do believe that Jesus is the Risen Savior and Lord of All?
• Have you put your faith in Jesus as your Lord and Savior?
• Are you ready to follow Him all the days of your life?
Plug your nose as the baptizer lowers you in and out of the water.
Celebrate with your friends, family, and microchurch as they cheer for you!