Baptism

Baptism – The believer’s profession of faith in and obedience to Christ.

What is Baptism?
Baptism is something that Jesus commanded His church to observe. At Rock Valley Chapel we practice baptism because Jesus’ precedent (Matthew 3:13) and precept (Matthew 28:18-20) gave authority for its observance. In the New Testament, belief always seemed to proceed baptism.

Baptism is a powerful form of proclamation that is:

• An expression of a person’s acceptance of the gospel (Acts 2:41; 8:26-38)
• A picture of a believer’s participation in the death, burial and resurrection of Christ (Romans 6:3-5; Colossians 2:12)
• A concrete expression of the cleansing work of the Holy Spirit within a believer (Galatians 2:20)
• A public act of initiation of union with Christ and His people

Who should be baptized?

We believe that baptism is for all individuals who have placed their trust in Christ for their salvation. This includes both adults and children who have expressed their trust in Christ. The New Testament records the baptisms of believers, but never specifically, of infants.

In the Bible we find parents bringing their children to Jesus. He held them, blessed them, but did not baptize them or tell anyone else to baptize them. The New Testament evidence speaks clearly that individuals were baptized after expressing their trust in Christ for their salvation (Acts 2:41; 8:12; 10:47-48) and were usually baptized shortly afterwards.

We do not have any set age when a person is allowed to be baptized, but they need to be old enough to understand the plan of salvation and the meaning of baptism.

How to become baptized:

• Express your personal faith and trust in Jesus Christ for your salvation.
• Contact the church office for more information.