Baptism

Christians participate in two God-given acts that celebrate what God has done for us through Jesus Christ—communion and baptism.  Both are very important parts of the Christian faith.  Baptism is something that Jesus asked every person who crosses the line of faith to do (Matthew 28:19)

How much water is involved in baptism?
The Greek word “baptism” means to plunge or dip or immerse.  It was a word used in every day usage in ancient times.  A first-century recipe for making pickles was discovered and it said the cucumbers were to be “baptized” in vinegar.  There is agreement across all denominations that baptism in the New Testament was full immersion of a person in water.  We baptize by full immersion in water at Rolling Hills.  The symbolism of full immersion is so great—full surrender, full forgiveness, total submission to Christ.

Does it matter where a person is baptized?
No, that does not matter.  Jesus was baptized in a river.  We baptize people in swimming pools, hot tubs, lakes, rivers, the ocean, and at church.  If you were baptized by immersion at another church that is fine—it doesn’t have to be at Rolling Hills.

How old should someone be to be baptized?
The Bible indicates that baptism is an expression of the commitment of the person being baptized.  Jesus said in Mark 16:16, “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved.”  Baptism is for those old enough to make that kind of commitment.  We do have at Rolling Hills a parent/child dedication time in which parents commit to raise their children under God, and prayers are offered up that these infants will some day make a personal choice to follow Jesus.

Does baptism “save” a person?
No.  Baptism has no saving power of its own.  But baptism does provide a benchmark that you have accepted Christ and desire to have Him be your leader and forgiver.

I want to be baptized, what should I do?
Contact us and one of the pastors will be happy to help you with this great decision!