Baptism

Jesus told his followers to baptize new believers as the first act of obedience to Him. We wholeheartedly believe this and encourage each new believer to be baptized. However, baptism isn’t required for salvation as it is only through faith in Christ alone that saves.

What is baptism?

Baptism is a physical act and visual representation that communicates the inward change of believers who have come to faith by grace in Jesus Christ. It is a public declaration of faith and an invitation for the church community to join this person in helping them walk by faith.

The visible act of baptism should symbolize the invisible theological realities which it represents; namely: union with Christ in his death and resurrection (Rom 6:1-7), identification with the Triune God (Matt 28:19), sprinkling and cleansing from sin (Ezek 36:24-27; Acts 2:38-41;), rescue from God’s judgment (1 Pet 3:20-21), pouring out of the Spirit (Joel 2:28-32; Acts 2:17-21), circumcision made without hands (Col 2:11-15), and entrance into the new covenant community (1 Cor 12:12-13).

Acts 2:38

And Peter said to them, “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.”

If you would like more information about what it means to get baptized, please contact us at info@cornerstonesimi.com