Why We Practice Water Baptism

Water baptism is a vital step of obedience for every believer, reflecting an outward testimony of an inward transformation. Jesus Christ set the example by being baptized, not because He needed repentance, but to fulfill all righteousness and to provide a model for us to follow.

“Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. And John tried to prevent Him, saying, ‘I need to be baptized by You, and You are coming to me?’ But Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.’” – Matthew 3:13-15

Jesus’ baptism marked the beginning of His earthly ministry. In the same way, water baptism for believers marks the start of a new life in Christ—a public declaration of faith, repentance, and commitment to follow Him.

The Command to Baptize

Jesus instructed His followers to include water baptism as part of making disciples:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20

The Meaning of Baptism

Water baptism symbolizes our unity with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection:

• Burial in water represents dying to sin and the old self.
• Rising from the water signifies resurrection into a new life with Christ.
  “Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” – Romans 6:4

This act is a declaration of faith, a step of obedience, and an invitation to a deeper relationship with Christ. Testimonies often affirm the transformative power of baptism, from physical healing to spiritual renewal.

Biblical Practice of Baptism

Scripture consistently shows that baptism follows personal belief and confession of faith in Jesus Christ.

• “Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them.” – Acts 2:41

At Freedom Worship Center, we baptize believers by full immersion in water, as modeled by Jesus and the early church. Full immersion symbolizes complete burial and resurrection with Christ.

Baptism and Dedication

We dedicate infants to the Lord because they are not yet able to understand or confess the gospel. Those baptized as infants or without a personal understanding of its significance may choose to be re-baptized as an act of faith and commitment.

Requirements for Baptism

To be baptized at Freedom Worship Center:

1. The individual must have a personal confession of Jesus Christ as Savior.
2. They must understand the biblical meaning and significance of baptism.

Preparation and Procedure

• Contact the Pastor/Elder team with questions or schedule your baptism.
• Dress modestly:
• Men: Shorts and a T-shirt or swim trunks.
• Women: Shorts and a modest T-shirt.
• Bring a towel and a change of clothes for after the baptism.

Water baptism is a profound spiritual milestone and a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ. At Freedom Worship Center, we celebrate this step with great joy, as it signifies the believer’s commitment to walk in the newness of life and obedience to God.

If you are ready to take this step, we are here to walk alongside you in your faith journey.