The Practice of Baptism

At Emmanuel, we believe that the Bible teaches that every person who has repented of sin and placed their faith in Jesus should be baptized. Baptism is often one of the first acts of obedience for a new believer in Christ. A person does not need to be perfect or have everything “together,” only to have made a sincere decision to follow Jesus. Many people hesitate, thinking they are not ready or that parts of their life must change first. However, the Bible does not teach this. The truth is that you are ready to be baptized as soon as you understand the responsibility and significance of doing so.

Baptism is also an important step of identification within the church. At Emmanuel, we believe that baptism is a matter of the heart, and as a person grows in the faith, the desire to be identified with Christ leads to an eagerness to go through the waters of baptism. We believe it is the duty of the elders and pastors to encourage all members to be baptized by immersion, demonstrating obedience and a closer walk with Jesus our Saviour.

Although the details of what the Bible teaches about baptism are covered in our Baptism Course, we believe in baptism for four main reasons:

1. Jesus did it

2. The apostles taught it

3. It allows you to publicly declare your faith in Christ

4. Jesus commanded it

Baptism is both an act of obedience to Jesus and a public declaration of what He has done in your life.

We generally plan three to four baptismal services throughout the year at Emmanuel during our worship services. Before being baptized, each person is required to take a Baptism Course led by a staff member, often in a small group setting. On the day of baptism, each participant is invited to share a brief testimony of their spiritual journey and answer the question, “Why do you want to be baptized?” They are also welcome to have someone who has had a meaningful spiritual impact on their life stand with them and pray for them during their baptism.

If you are interested in being baptized or would like more information, please let us know by filling out the form here, and one of our staff will contact you.