Why?

We baptise people because Jesus told his followers to go into the whole world and make disciples, to baptise them, and to teach them to do all that He commanded.

Who?

We baptise people who believe that Jesus Christ died to take the punishment for all the wrong things (sins) that they have ever done and will ever do, that He rose up from the dead, and after defeating demonic powers has taken His seat at God's right hand in Heaven. People who are prepared to turn away from all their sins, and want to lead a new life under the authority of Jesus.

How?

We use a baptistry which is like a miniature swimming pool full of warm water. If we lived in a country with a suitable climate a river, a lake, or the sea could be used. We lead the person down into the water to chest height, lean them over backwards until their head goes under the water, then we bring them back upright and help them out of the water. This symbolises the person dying to sin, being buried with Jesus Christ, and being raised again to a new life.

You?

If you are prepared to repent of your sins, want to live a new life following Jesus, and are baptised your sins will be forgiven and washed away, God will give you a clear conscience and you will receive a new life. The Holy Spirit will live in you, giving assurance that you are one of God's children and power to live in a way that is pleasing to God. You will become a part of the true church (which consists of all real Christians).

Examples

The New Testament gives us many examples of people being baptised. They include:

• 3000 on the Day of Pentecost
• many in Samaria
• a sorcerer called Simon
• a court official from Ethiopia
• the apostle Paul
• Cornelius, his relatives and close friends
• Lydia (a rich business woman) and her household
• a prison officer from Philippi and his household
• Crispus (the leader of the synagogue in Corinth), his household and many others from Corinth
• some disciples of John the Baptist at Ephesus