What is Baptism?
Baptism is called a church ‘ordinance’ because the Lord Jesus ordained (commanded) that his followers should observe it. The other church ordinance is The Lord’s Supper, or Communion. The Lord’s Supper is a symbolic ritual that points to the historical fact of Jesus’ crucifixion. Baptism is a symbolic ritual that testifies to two things: the believer’s union with Christ in his death, burial and resurrection and with the body of Christ, the church.
While there are different views on Baptism in the Christian Church, at Rosebank Union Church we practice Believer’s Baptism. A believer is a person who has heard the gospel message, been convicted by the Holy Spirit, repented of their sin and believed in Jesus. Being baptised is an outward ritual which bears witness to the reality of this inward regeneration.
Why Should I be Baptised?
There is one simple reason why a believer in the Lord Jesus should be baptized: because Jesus commanded it in the Great Commission (Mathew 28:18-20).
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
The practice of baptism as recorded throughout the book of Acts is proof of the fact that the apostles and early believers understood and obeyed Jesus’ command concerning baptism. Baptism is a simple step of obedience in choosing to follow Jesus.
Will you obey Jesus’ command?
What must I do to be Baptised?
If you are interested in being baptised, please fill in the form below as an expression of interest. Prior to being baptised you will be required to attend a Baptism class to help you understand what baptism is and to prepare you for the baptismal service.
