How to Prepare for a Baptism
Water baptism should be both a solemn and joyous event in the life of a Christian and the church. The occurrence of baptisms demonstrates renewal is taking place in the church. As an outward expression of inner faith, baptism signifies identification with Jesus Christ, repentance of sins and the desire to walk in newness of life. As Paul wrote, "Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead ... we also should walk in newness of life" (Romans 6:4). Prayerful preparation will ensure baptism its proper meaning and impact.
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Instructions
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Understand the gospel. Baptism is first to be preceded by sincere repentance. The Apostle Peter stated, "Repent, and let everyone of you be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins" (Acts 2:38). He also states that baptism is significant when the person demonstrates "a good conscience toward God" (1 Peter 3:21). It's important to understand the reason for Christ's sacrificial death and the role repentance plays in personal salvation.
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Ask to be baptized in the biblical mode of immersion. The Bible states in Matthew 3:6 and 3:16 that the baptism performed by John the Baptist on the people and Jesus was in the Jordan river and by immersion. The Book of Acts, chapter 8 and verses 26 to 39, speaks of the baptism by immersion of an Ethiopian official. As noted earlier, Romans 6:4 speaks of "burial" with Christ and being "raised" to new life. Going under the water symbolizes this burial and coming up from the water signifies resurrection. Seek baptism according to the biblical mode.
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Write out your personal testimony. You may be asked to give a brief explanation of how you came to the decision to repent of personal sins and place faith in Christ for salvation. It will also be important to share what has happened, practically speaking, as a result of this decision. Have there been lifestyle changes? Has there been a greater sense of the presence of the Holy Spirit? Some churches will make space during baptism services for candidates who wish to do so to share this personal information publicly as a means of praising God and encouraging the congregation.
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Attend any preparatory classes or sessions that your church mandates. Some churches will cover the meaning, mode and purpose of water baptism during a new convert class. Other churches may have specific classes dedicated solely to the purpose of explaining water baptism and preparing people to receive the ordinance.
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Invite family and friends to attend your baptism. The occasion of water baptism provides a great opportunity to witness the gospel to loved ones, especially when church leaders encourage a candidate to share his personal testimony. Guests may be moved to consider their own relationship with God when they hear how the grace of God has been at work in your life.
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Bring a towel, change of clothes and proper covering. Many churches provide baptismal robes for candidates. It is important to ask about this prior to the date of baptism. It can be awkward, for instance, if a woman is baptized wearing a white T-shirt. Dark, loose fitting clothing will work best if baptismal robes are not provided.
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Ask the minister about the mechanics of how you will be baptized. In most cases, the minister will already be in the water, usually in a baptismal tank located in the platform area of the sanctuary. Once the candidate is in the water, the minister may say a few words and invite the candidate to share their testimony. He should then have the candidate place both hands upon his face using one to hold his nostrils closed. This will ensure that water does not shoot up the candidate's nose when he is immersed. The body's buoyancy will enable the minister to immediately pull the candidate back up from the water. It's important to relax and lay back, allowing him to take you sufficiently under the water.
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References
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