When a person is baptised, they are identifying with Christ’s death, burial and resurrection. It is an outward demonstration of what has already taken place inwardly.
The word ‘baptise’ comes from a Greek word which means ‘to put under water so as to submerge and then to take out again’. In Christianity, water baptism is the physical act of being submerged under water after you have repented of your sin and confessed Jesus Christ as Lord. It expresses a deeper spiritual reality: that you have died to the power of sin and are living a new life in God. We have been granted access to this spiritual reality because we have placed our faith in Jesus, who died on the cross for our sins.
Baptism in water is one of the most important moments that any follower of Christ can experience! But for many, it can be a little bit confusing.. Don’t worry, we’re here to help!
The truth is, Baptism is for every Jesus follower, regardless of how long they have been a Christian. It is an unforgettable statement of faith and a moment that you will remember for the rest of your life. We have a created a dedicated space to learn more about baptism, what it is, why it matters and how you can get baptised here at LIFE.
Upcoming Baptisms
Sunday 23 March
Sunday 4 May
Register below! For more details email nextsteps@lifeau.org or go to the info desk on Sunday.
Join us at
Wednesday prior to Baptism Sunday Service at 8pm via Zoom
FAQs
No. Scripture is clear that we are saved only by grace through Christ Jesus. We do this simply by acknowledging his sacrifice on the cross and repenting (turning away) from our sin.
There is no requirement to be baptised more than once however, a few special exemptions may apply:
- If you we’re baptised purely out of religious obligation rather than out of a desire for greater relational intimacy and out of obedience to Jesus.
- If you were baptised as a child prior to making your own personal decision to follow Jesus.
Water Baptism as commanded by Jesus is different to a christening or dedication for reasons stated above. We believe full immersion (in water) is the biblical standard for baptism due to its representation of being fully immersed in Jesus and inviting the Holy Spirit to touch EVERY area of our lives.
While an infant can be dedicated as an act of invitation for Gods protection and blessing to be on that child, an infant cannot be baptised according to its biblical definition. This is due to an infant being too young to make a personal decision to follow Jesus and showcase a personal desire for going through the waters of baptism. Generally, if a person is old enough to understand at a high level what they are doing, baptism can be recommended.
The right time to be baptised it as soon as possible following a decision to become a follower of Jesus! There is a common misconception that baptism is something someone does after a certain period of time or after your faith has reached a certain level of maturity. The truth is, baptism is one of the key things that will help your faith stand the test of time and ensure you progress effectively towards maturity. Waiting to get baptised is like leaving your star player on the bench with the idea of bringing them in once you feel like the game has progressed a bit and you’re already winning!
No, there is no baptism requirement in order to become a member of LIFE. In fact, there are no requirements whatsoever to become a member of LIFE! All are welcome.