Introduction
Baptism is going public with your faith and declaring to everyone that you have trusted in Jesus. It’s a special milestone in the life of every believer!
We are excited that you are interested in baptism and consider it a privilege to walk with you as you take this next step on your spiritual journey. The baptism process at GFC has been designed to be simple and meaningful.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you trust in Christ alone as the sole basis for your forgiveness of sins and a new life, then you are ready to respond to Christ’s command to be baptized. Just like a bride and groom show others their love for one another by wearing wedding bands, your baptism is your opportunity to show others that you have trusted Christ and are committed to following Him the best you know how.
Baptism does not make you a believer in Christ; rather, it shows that you already believe. You do not have to be baptized to be a believer in Jesus Christ, any more than you must exchange rings to be pronounced man and wife. But if you have trusted Christ, the outward symbol of baptism should be as valued and visible as the gold ring on a newlywed’s finger. If you have questions about how to begin a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, please contact us.
Baptism is an outward sign of an inward reality of the new life of Christ that has come to us by faith, based upon the finished work of Jesus Christ. In Romans 6:1-11 the apostle Paul explains how the immersion mode of baptism identifies the believer with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Going under the water represents Christ’s death, and coming out of the water illustrates His resurrection. So when you are baptized, you are publicly identifying yourself with Jesus’ death and resurrection.
We recognize that other churches and denominations choose to practice infant baptism. We understand that the Bible teaches that only individuals who have trusted Christ as their Savior qualify for baptism. In the Bible, we find parents bringing their children to Jesus. He held them, prayed for them, and told us to welcome them. He did not baptize them.
If you were baptized as a child, it was due to your parents’ intent that one day you come to faith. Your baptism as an adult believer in Jesus Christ can be seen as the fulfillment of your parents’ desire. Your believer’s baptism in no way diminishes the intent of your parents who baptized you as an infant.
- Please wear your GFC Baptism T-shirt and something that can get wet. (Your T-shirt will be given to you the day of your baptism so you can change into it before the service.)
- Females: Please wear a swimsuit underneath your clothing. No skirts or short shorts please.
- Please bring a change of clothing and a plastic bag for wet items.
- Towels will be provided for you.
- Meet 45 minutes before the service for which you are scheduled (at either 8:30 am or 10:15 am). A GFC staff member or volunteer will meet you at your scheduled arrival time.
- Meeting location will be in the West Lobby alcove outside of the Worship Arts office.
- We will reserve seats in the Auditorium for you and your immediate family members.
- Please share this information with the person who will be baptizing you.
You will receive an email the week before your Sunday baptism with these day-of instructions and contact information in case of emergency.
