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Baptism

What is Baptism?

Baptism is a very important step in the life of a Jesus-follower. This is not something we do because it saves us, but it is an outward sign of an inward change that God has done. Jesus Himself modeled this when He was baptized (see Matthew 4; Mark 1; Luke 3; John 1). This is a symbol of our commitment to following Jesus.

Baptism weekends are a time that we set aside as a church to celebrate those choosing to get baptized. These weekends are typically held twice a year.

If you are interested in getting baptized at a different time outside of baptism weekends, we offer baptism any time! To fill out a Baptism Interest Form, visit the Locations page and select your campus.

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Why Baptism?

Baptism is a symbolic and public display that you have chosen to follow Christ. Much like a wedding ring, baptism is a visible representation of your commitment to Jesus. Also, like a wedding ring is not in itself a marriage, baptism is not in itself our salvation. If baptism is not preceded by true repentance (Matthew 3:8) and followed by works, which evidence true faith (James 2:17), then the baptism means nothing.

Why should we be baptized?

In short, we baptize because Jesus said to baptize. In His final words to His disciples, Christ said to baptize all nations (Matthew 28:19). Not only did He command them to baptize, He set the example by being baptized Himself (Matthew 3:13–17). Though He had nothing for which to repent, having lived a sinless life, Christ chose to be baptized by John because it pleased God the Father (Matthew 3:17). We, being followers of Christ, seeking always to conform ourselves to His image and example, follow Him in obedience by being baptized.

Do we have to be baptized?

This is the wrong question. It should not be our concern how little we can do to receive salvation. If we fully understand the weight of sin and the size of grace, we should ask what we can do for God, not what we have to do for God. 

Do we have to be baptized in a particular way?

We believe full-immersion baptism should be conducted on those who have repented of their sins and desire to publicly profess their faith in Jesus Christ. Within these requirements, we do not believe there is a magical formula for baptism. No person is capable of giving us salvation by their correct baptism, nor are they capable of taking away our salvation by their incorrect baptism (Romans 8:38–39).

If you have been baptized previously but not in a way that fulfilled the above requirements, such as sprinkling or without your full understanding (e.g., infant baptism), you may consider being re-baptized. However, we do not believe you need to be genuinely baptized more than once. If you are seeking forgiveness for sins committed since your genuine baptism, you only need to ask God and repent.

Kids Baptism

If your child is interested in getting baptized, please fill out the Baptism Interest Form below! We look forward to helping them take this step of obedience in their walk with Jesus.

Murfreesboro Cannon County Shelbyville Tullahoma
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Murfreesboro

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Cannon County

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Shelbyville

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Tullahoma

Baptism Sermons

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