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Baptism is not a sacrament (necessary for salvation), but neither is it merely a matter of private conviction between God and an individual. It is the initial act of obedience in which a believer publicly declares the Lordship of Jesus Christ and identifies with the body of Christ, the church. Therefore, all Christians should be baptized through immersion after they have demonstrated an understanding of the nature of their sin, the need for repentance, and the nature of the Gospel applied to their life. We believe a Christian who has never experienced believer’s baptism should be baptized by a pastor or elder of NorthCreek Church as a symbol of receiving them into the body of Christ. We believe this is best done in the context of a service [of] the church. It is never practiced, or intended for an infant in Scripture.
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Scripture
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Principle
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Application
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Luke 23:43
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Not necessary for salvation
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Distinguish from salvation
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Matthew 28:19
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Disciples are to be baptized
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Obey – it is not a matter of private conviction
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Matthew 3:4-12;
Acts 2:37-39
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Public declaration of repentance from sin
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These issues checked before baptism
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Ephesians 4:5
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One baptism – signifies Lord of all
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Declaration of Jesus as Lord at baptism
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Luke 3:21;
Matthew 10:32
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Public confession
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Public testimony given at the time of baptism
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Romans 6:3,4
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A symbol of Jesus’ death and resurrection
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We identify with His service and suffering
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1 Corinthians 12:13;
Acts 2:41
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Jesus baptizes us with the Spirit into the church at salvation
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Baptism precedes church membership
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1 Peter 3:21-22
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An appeal to God for a good conscience
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Baptism expresses a free conscience
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Acts 16:33,34
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All in the household who believed were baptized
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Baptism is for those who believe, not infants
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To be baptized at NorthCreek Church, or if you have further questions, contact Kathy at 925.210.9036.
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