We believe baptism is an outward, physical sign of an inward, spiritual reality. And the order here is so important. A person is first converted and then they pursue baptism to publicly testify to their conversion. This also means that baptism has no salvific effect. We are saved by faith alone in Christ alone through grace alone. But for those who have been truly converted, it will be their joy to publicly declare it through baptism. By doing so, they also enter into covenant membership with a local church where they can receive and provide accountability & encouragement from and to a specific body of believers (Matthew 18:15-20; 1 Corinthians 5:1-13; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Hebrews 3:12-13), continue to be shepherded by specific pastor-elders who are charged with overseeing and caring for their souls (Acts 20:28; Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 5:1-4), and remembering their covenant commitments through regular participation in the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:27-33).

If you would like to speak with a pastor about baptism, please email us or call the office at 205-339-3220.