Throughout the history of the Christian Church, Baptism has been one of the most universally accepted practices. It is a symbol of our being united with Christ in his death and resurrection. This is a sacred and beautiful opportunity to declare, “I believe the best possible way to live is the way of Jesus, and I am committed to following Christ - daily dying to myself and allowing the resurrected Christ to live in and through me.” Scroll to the bottom of this page for Q&A about the meaning of baptism.
If you have committed to following Jesus and have not yet been baptized, sign up for our next Baptism Sunday, May 7, 2023.
SIGN UP TO BE BAPTIZED: Sunday, May 7, 2023
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What is Baptism?
Baptism and communion (the Lord’s Supper) are the two ordinances prescribed by our Lord Jesus Christ as visible symbols of invisible grace. They are discernible and tangible representations of both the invisible realities of the gospel and the Spirit’s application of this gospel to our lives.
Baptism doesn't make you a believer - it is a declaration that through faith, you have already been united with Christ. Baptism does not "save" you, only your faith in Christ does that. Baptism is similar to wedding ring - it is an outward symbol of the commitment you make in your heart.
The symbolism around baptism is that of dying, being buried and being called back to life. In the historic tradition of the Church baptism involves a turning away from sin and a turning towards Jesus Christ and his Church. Therefore, baptism is not a means of salvation; rather it is a beautiful picture of our union with Christ and our declaring that we join him in the renewal of all things!
Why should I be baptized?
To obey the commands of Christ. Jesus regarded the act of baptism to be so significant that he commissioned his Church to go all over the world baptizing disciples who believe the gospel message. "Therefore go and make disciples of all the nations," He said, "baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." (Matthew 28v19)
To follow the example of Christ. Jesus modeled baptism, ”At that time Jesus came from Nazereth and was baptized by John in the Jordan." (Mark 1v9). The desire to be baptized should be motivated by a desire to glorify God in faithful obedience. Any other motivation (to join a particular local church, to please a friend or family member, etc.) should not be the ultimate reason for seeking to be baptized.
Who should be baptized?
"Those who accepted His message were baptized." Acts 2:41
"Simon himself believed and was baptized." Acts 8:13
"But when they believed... they were baptized, both men and women." Acts 8:12
We practice what is called “believer’s” or “confessor’s” baptism, which means we only baptize those who believe and confess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Reading through Acts, we find baptism explicitly related to repentance, receiving the Word, believing and receiving the Holy Spirit. At The Hills, we wait until our children are old enough to believe and understand the true meaning of baptism. If you have a child that is expressing an interest in baptism, please contact Pastor Matthew at info@thehillsdenver.
When should a person be baptized?
“And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name.” Acts 22:16
As soon as a person trusts Christ, he or she should be baptized. The Scriptures do not speak of a delayed baptism in which a regenerate believer refrains from obedience to the ordinance. In all the accounts in the Scriptures, baptism is rather immediate.