Baptisms

One of our favourite events at Mosaic are our baptism services. They are full of celebration and joy as we thank Jesus for all that he has done in people's lives.

We believe the bible is clear that all believers need to be baptised and so we would encourage you to get baptised as soon as possible if you are a Christian.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) about Baptism

What is baptism?

Baptism is a part of the Great Commission, ordained by Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:19, Mark 16:16, Acts 2:38). Baptism isn't a means by which you get saved. It is a means by which you demonstrate that you have been saved.

Where did it come from?

God has long used the picture of washing with water to symbolize cleansing, purification, and setting apart for His glory. Baptism is rooted in the rite of circumcision, and the ceremonial washings in the Old Covenant. In the New Testament, John the Baptist came calling people to prepare the way for Jesus through a baptism of repentance. Jesus was baptized, although he had no sin, to "fulfill all righteousness" (Matthew 3:13-17, Mark 1:9-11, Luke 3:21-22, John 1:31-34).

Who should be baptised?

Believers-those who have repented and placed their faith in Jesus.

When should believers be baptised?

As soon as possible after they have repented and placed their faith in Jesus. In Scripture, faith and baptism go together (Acts 2:37-40, 8:34-38).

Why should we be baptised?

Jesus was baptised. We are following his example (Matthew 3:13-17); Obedience to Jesus' command in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19, Mark 16:16, Acts 2:38); Baptism is a symbol (like a wedding ceremony) of unity with Christ in His death, burial and resurrection and shows you belong to Him (Romans 6:1-4, Colossians 2:11-12); Baptism pictures the washing/cleansing of your heart and purification through regeneration (Titus 3:4-7, Acts 22:16).

We are following the historical example of the early church. Throughout Acts, we see people being saved and then baptized. Baptism is a sign of your entrance into and unity with the church, both local and universal.

What are the benefits of baptism?

• Strengthens your faith
• Reassurance of your salvation
• You receive the joy of obedience
• Blessing of the Father for obedience
• Impact on conscience
• Joy and celebration for the church
• Church strengthened and encouraged by your obedience

Why is there sometimes confusion about it?

Churches have different views on baptism. Catholics and some Protestant churches teach that baptism itself conveys grace without requiring faith from the people participating in it. They would teach that you must be baptised in order to be saved. We however, believe that a person is saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). Baptism is a public demonstration of faith, not the cause of faith. Baptism is not necessary for salvation, but is necessary for obedience to Jesus Christ who commanded it. Although the method of baptism (being immersed or sprinkled) is not vital, we believe the scriptural evidence strongly supports baptism by immersion (Matt. 3:16, Mark 1:10, Acts 8:38).

If I have been confirmed, do I need to be baptised?

Yes. Your confirmation class was an important way of clarifying and affirming your faith but didn't involved the full immersion by water that Jesus commands.

If I was baptised as an infant, do I need to be baptised?

Yes. We believe that individuals are only saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone (Eph 2:8-9). This requires the person to place faith in God for themselves not by their parents. Baptism is the obedient response to this choice.

By whom should a believer be baptised?

Because all believers are "priests," (I Peter 2:4-10) any other believer can baptise, although it has historically been done by "church leaders."