BAPTISM

Therefore we were buried with Him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too may walk in a new way of life.

Romans 6.4

WHY IS BAPTISM IMPORTANT?

Declaring Your New Life in Jesus

Baptism is for anyone who has accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

Baptism is a picture of God’s grace through Christ. By being baptized, a believer shows the world that they have turned away from sin and towards Jesus. You may also hear it explained as, “an outward sign of an inward faith.”

At Cornerstone, we practice believer’s baptism by immersion in water as depicted in the Bible. The submerging and raising of the believer is a beautiful depiction that follows Christ’s own example, and is also representative of the believer dying to sin and burying their old life, and being raised to walk in a new life with Jesus.

Jesus said in Matthew 28:19: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." According to the words of Jesus, baptism is the first step of obedience of a person who commits their life to follow Christ.

Baptism is significant for three reasons:

Baptism is an act of obedience. Authentic faith motivates followers of Jesus to be baptized according to His command.
Baptism is a personal and public proclamation declaring faith in Jesus Christ alone for salvation.
Baptism is symbolic of death from the old life of sin and resurrection to a new life in a relationship with Jesus Christ.

If you have committed your life to Jesus and have not publicly declared your new life in Him through baptism, prayerfully consider this and make baptism your next step.

Are you ready to be baptized?

If you are ready to make that public declaration, then get started by making plans to get baptized at Cornerstone Baptist Church! Please contact Pastor Michael Rakes for more information.

FAQs

What is the purpose of Baptism?

Baptism serves as a public declaration of your faith and commitment to Jesus Christ. It symbolizes your new life in Him, leaving behind your old ways and embracing a fresh start.

Is Baptism necessary for salvation?

While baptism is an important step for believers, it is not a requirement for salvation. Salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ. Baptism is a meaningful way to publicly express that faith.

What about infant baptism?

Baptism is a public profession of salvation and only people who have repented of their sin and have trusted Christ as their personal Lord and Savior should experience baptism. For this reason, Cornerstone does not baptize infants. If you have not experienced believer's baptism, even though you have experienced baptism as an infant, the full meaning and significance of baptism has yet to take place in your life. We strongly encourage you to be baptized as a believer in Christ.

Is there an age requirement for baptism?

While there is no specific age requirement for baptism, a full understanding and acceptance of the gospel is required.

Why does Cornerstone believe baptism by immersion is important?

At Cornerstone, we practice baptism by full immersion in water as depicted in the Bible. The submerging and raising of the believer is a beautiful depiction that follows Christ’s own example, and is also representative of the believer dying to sin and burying their old life, and being raised to walk in a new life with Jesus. If you witness a baptism at Cornerstone, you’ll most likely hear the pastor say when baptizing, “Buried with Christ in baptism, raised to walk in newness of life” based on Romans 6:4.

Who can I talk to if I have more questions about baptism?

If you have more questions or want to discuss baptism further, please reach out to Pastor Michael Rakes. He is available to provide guidance, answer your questions, and help you understand the significance of baptism in your faith journey.