What Is Baptism?
We are excited that you are interested in baptism. It's an important step of obedience for every person who has trusted Christ as their Savior and Lord. The information below explains baptism and the steps necessary to be baptized at Friendship Vallejo.
What Baptism Symbolizes
Baptism symbolizes the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus and what took place in your heart upon salvation...
- Acceptance of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior
- Sharing in His death and resurrection illustrated by going under the water
(dead to our old way of life), then rising again (new life)
- Being symbolically washed clean, our sins forgiven
Answers to common questions:
Is my salvation dependent on being baptized?
Jesus instructed us to be baptized; it is not necessary for salvation, it demonstrates submission to God.
Why immersion?
We immerse at Friendship because we believe Scripture shows how Jesus modeled that for us as the way to publicly acknowledge our faith in Him.
I was sprinkled as a baby. Does that count?
In some denominations, infant christening represents a decision made by parents that they are dedicating their child to Christ. Much like the Baby Dedications we celebrate at Friendship. However, being dedicated or sprinkled does not make you a Christian. Only a personal acceptance of Christ's death on the cross for your sins can do that.
The Baptism Process:
The baptism process at Friendship has been designed to be both simple and meaningful; carefully planned with you in mind.
- Walk down the aisle at the end of service. Because we want to celebrate you publicly with our church family and for you to publicly confess your faith!
- Attend the Baptism Class. This gives us an opportunity to hear your story and answer questions.
- Get baptized. Baptisms usually take place during a Sunday morning service. Invite your family and friends to come witness your step of obedience and celebrate with you!