Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come;
the old is gone, the new is here!
2 Corinthians 5:17
Water Baptism is a public, outward declaration that reflects our personal, inward faith. This sacred activity symbolises our participation in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is the celebration of us entering into union with Christ and his church, by grace through faith.
Being water baptised signifies the death of our old life as we are fully immersed into the water, and the resurrection of our new life in Christ as we are raised out. (Romans 6:1–8; Colossians 2:12, 2 Corinthians 5:17).
We believe in the importance of being baptised by people you know well and trust. At Saints, this is usually a dinner party leader or pastor.
We believe in three reasons for getting water baptised.
Jesus was baptised as an example for us
In Mark’s gospel, we see Jesus asking John the Baptist to baptise him, not because he needed to be cleansed from sin, but in order for all righteousness to be fulfilled. (Matthew 3:15)
Jesus commanded it
Before his ascension, Jesus commanded the disciples saying; “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:18-20)
It is a sign of discipleship
Peter and the disciples in the early church continued this practice as they began to proclaim the gospel and teach all that Jesus had commanded. (Acts 2:38, John 3:5)
Baptism is for anyone who has professed faith in Jesus Christ. This acknowledgement of faith involves the recognition of sin, genuine repentance as well as regeneration of the heart. The old nature is gone, the new has come.
We believe baptism should be a personal decision and declaration of our faith. Some people are baptised or confirmed as a child. However, if they now want to make a personal commitment in this community, we encourage them to consider getting baptised again.
Water baptism is a significant moment in the life of the believer, and as such, it should not be entered into lightly. At Saints, we believe it is important that people know what this step represents and why they are taking it.
If you are ready to take this step, we are so excited and are prepared to support you on this journey.