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1. BAPTISM: For persons who have been saved by accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and desire to obey Christ by being scripturally baptized by immersion. Click here for more information on becoming saved.
2. LETTER FROM ANOTHER BAPTIST CHURCH: For persons who are saved, have been baptized by immersion after salvation, and are members in good standing of another Baptist church which will transfer them by letter to Berea Baptist Church (we will handle transfer of the letter).
3. STATEMENT OF FAITH: For persons who are saved and have been baptized by immersion after salvation but are not members of another Baptist church.
Please call Pastor Larry with any questions at any time 386-755-0900
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Baptism FAQs
Why is baptism so important to my obedience to Jesus Christ?
First and foremost, believers are baptized because Jesus was and He asked us to follow His example in all things. "When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too" (Luke 3:21).
Why is immersion so important?
The word "baptism" literally means to be immersed. Therefore, when Jesus was baptized He was put totally under the surface of the water from head to toe. The Bible teaches that believers are to do the same.
What if I have already been baptized?
Baptism is only required once. However, it must have occurred by immersion, following your personal decision to receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior. "Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day" (Acts 2:41). This verse teaches that you must accept the message of Jesus Christ first and then be baptized. Baptism does not make one a Christian, only faith in Christ can do that. Therefore, only believers should be baptized. Sometimes people are baptized as without a basic understanding this truth. Others are baptized as result of their parents' choice and not their own, while some are baptized believing that his act will produce salvation. In instances like these one should consider being baptized again with full knowledge of what the Bible teaches.
If baptism does not save you, what does it do?
Baptism by immersion has many functions other than pure obedience to Christ. First, it is a public identification with Christ and His mission. We are baptized just as Christ was, declaring our intentions to follow Him. "Whoever acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before men, I will disown him before my Father in heaven" (Matt. 10:32-33). Second, it is a picture of the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. As one is lowered into the water it is a picture of Jesus being placed in the tomb. Then, just as Jesus was resurrected from the dead, you are raised from the water, symbolizing the new life you have found in Christ. "We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life" (Romans 6:4). Third, baptism is a symbolic expression of the inner cleansing and change which results from calling on the name of Christ for salvation. "If we have been united with Him like this in His death, we will certainly also be united with Him in His resurrection. For we know that our old self was crucified with Him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin" (Romans 6:5-6). The Bible compares baptism to the death and resurrection of Christ. For the new believer, this means that the condemnation and guilt of sin are "done away with" through Christ. Its power is rendered weak over your life.
How do I go about being baptized?
At the conclusion of the worship service you have the opportunity to come to the front of the church to a minister. You should leave your seat and proceed to the front. Say to the minister, "I want to be baptized". He will introduce you to a special counselor who will walk with you to a private room to explain to you the importance of knowing Christ and being baptized. At this time any questions you have will be answered and baptism can be scheduled. Baptism can also be scheduled through a visit with one of the ministers. Simply call the church office (386)-755-0900 and ask to speak to a minister. He is eager to assist you.
Can I be baptized at my convenience?|
Yes. Many people like to invite special friends and family members to this important event. You are encouraged to do so. We baptize in all of our regular worship services. Please call the church office (386)-755-0900 to establish a time that is most meaningful to you.
What should I bring to my baptism ceremony?
Simply bring a change of clothes and a brush or comb if needed. The church has towels and other items already in place. A robe will be provided as well as a private dressing room. Also, it is important to arrive 20 minutes prior to your scheduled baptism. This will allow adequate time for instructions, prayer, and preparation.
What if I still have questions?
Your questions are important. Please call the church office (386)-755-0900 and ask for one of the ministers. We want to help you.
