
baptism
As followers of Christ, we engage in the ritual of baptism by immersion as a symbolic act that represents the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. It is a means of identifying ourselves with the body of Christ (the universal Church) in a tangible, public way. The practice of water baptism also symbolizes the total cleansing of the soul of the taint of sin and depravity. The act of baptism embodies the idea that just as we wash our body in water to cleanse it of impurities, our lives are washed in the restorative power of the blood of Christ. For this reason we hold the imagery of baptism to be a beautiful picture of the salvation and healing of our relationship and communion with God.
what do we believe about baptism?
When should you be baptized?
- When you believe that Jesus is God’s Son.
- When you believe that Jesus is your only hope of Salvation.
- When you believe His death on the cross paid the price for you sin.
What does the Bible connect with baptism?
- A belief (Mark 16:16).
- A profession of faith in Jesus as master of your life. It is a public declaration of a new association (Romans 10:9-13).
- A turning away from your sins (Acts 22:16).
Why be baptized?
Being baptized as a Christ Follower is another step of obeying Christ.
- To follow Jesus’ example (Matthew 3:13-17). As God’s perfect Son, He set an example for us to follow.
- To obey what Christ commanded (Matthew 28:19). Every follow of Christ is to be baptized as a part of your obedience.
- To follow the New Testament example (Acts 2:38-41); chapters 8,9,10,16). Everyone who made a decision to follow Christ in the Bible was baptized. It is just as important today as it was then.
- To live a new life (Romans 6:3-5). It is a picture of Christ’s death and resurrection, the burial of our past life and sin, and a fresh and new beginning.
- To be clothed with Christ (Galatians 3:26-27). The outward act of obedience displays our loyalty to Christ.
- To respond with a clear conscience to God (I Peter 3:21). We know we have done what He asks.
the baptism process
The next baptism event will be August 24.
The baptism process at VCC has been designed to be both simple and meaningful. From the registration form to the baptism meeting, each step has been carefully planned with you in mind.Complete the baptism registration
Submit the following registration form or print it out and mail it to the church office. Once we receive your registration form, we will contact you to schedule your informational meeting and baptism.Attend a meeting
After we receive your registration form, we'll contact you and schedule you for an informational meeting where you will meet other people who are preparing for baptism as well.Get baptized!
Baptisms take place in between our Sunday morning services in the courtyard outside. If you have questions about the baptism, contact Tim Sheaffer at tim@vailchristian.com.