Baptism

In the Great Commission, Jesus said, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you” (Matthew 28:18-20a).

Baptism is an important event in someone’s life. It is a means of grace, one of two sacraments in our church, in which we are initiated into Christ’s holy church, incorporated into God’s mighty acts of salvation and given new birth through water and the Spirit. All this is God’s gift, offered to us without price. Baptism is the sign of the New Covenant, the divine promise applied to the life of each of us.

Baptism is also a public declaration of one’s faith and is conducted in the context of public worship. Baptism at Springfield First can take place using either one of three modes: sprinkling, pouring, or immersion. We baptize people of all ages. Before each baptism, each candidate professes their faith and vows to serve Christ. In the case of those who cannot answer for themselves, their baptismal sponsor will answer their behalf.

There may be times when Christ followers feel the need to reaffirm their faith. At such times, baptismal reaffirmation is encouraged. Those who have already been baptized do not need to be baptized again. “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism…” (Ephesians 4:4-5).

We would love to talk with you about what baptism means for you and to answer any questions you may have. Please complete the form below and one of our pastors will reach out to you!