Baptism at Sonrise

Interested in getting baptized?

Each weekend at Sonrise there is an opportunity for you to be baptized, just come forward after the service!

What Is The Meaning Of Baptism?

Baptism is a symbol of one’s identification by faith with Christ’s death, burial and resurrection.
“Or have you forgotten that when we became Christians and were baptized to become one with Christ Jesus, we died with him? For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives. Since we have been united with him in his death, we will also be raised as he was.” Romans 6:3-5
Baptism pictures the death and burial of the old person before you were saved, and resurrection of a new life to be lived for the Lord Jesus Christ.

What Baptism Is Not...

Baptism is not how you get to heaven. Only faith in Jesus Christ gets you to heaven.
“God saved you by his special favor when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation
is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.” Ephesians 2:8-9
It is not proof to your church that your salvation is real. The Biblical proofs of salvation are true belief in the historic Jesus as revealed in the Bible (1 John 4:1-2); love for the believers (1 John 3:14-18); a lifestyle of moving towards righteousness (1 John 1:6; 3:9-10); and remaining with Jesus (1 John 2:19).

Why Should I Be Baptized?

Baptism is the first step to following Christ’s example. A Christian is a follower of Jesus Christ. Jesus was baptized by John in the Jordan River (Mark 1:9).
“One day Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee, and he was baptized by John in the Jordan River.” Mark 1:9
Baptism is commanded by Jesus Christ. He instructed his disciples to baptize others.
“Jesus came and told his disciples, ‘I have been given complete authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’” Matthew 28:18-20
Baptism is the pattern followed by all of the New Testament believers.
“Crispus, the leader of the synagogue, and all his household believed in the Lord. Many others in Corinth also became believers and were baptized.” Acts 18:8
Baptism is is a public confession of our new life in Christ and a sign of our loyalty and obedience to Christ and his word.
“And how can we be sure that we belong to him? By obeying his commandments.”

When Should I Get Baptized?

The most detailed example of baptism is found in Acts 8 where Philip told a man about Jesus Christ.
“So Philip began with this same Scripture and then used many others to tell him the Good News about Jesus. As they rode along, they came to some water, and the eunuch said, ‘Look! There’s some water! Why can’t I be baptized?’ He ordered the carriage to stop, and they went down into the water, and Philip baptized him.” Acts 8:36-38
There is no reason to delay. As soon as a person declares their belief in Christ, they may be baptized.
 

Who Should Be Baptized?

Those who heard Peter’s Pentecost sermon are examples.
“Peter’s words convicted them deeply, and they said to him and to the other apostles, ‘Brothers, what should we do?’ Peter replied, ‘Each of you must turn from your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins…’ Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added to the church—about three thousand in all.” Acts 2:37-38, 41
Baptism is only for those who have received the message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
“But now the people believed Philip’s message of Good News concerning the Kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ. As a result, many men and women were baptized.” Acts 8:12
 

Can Children Be Baptized?

The Bible links baptism to belief and repentance of sin. If a child is old enough to understand and receive this, they can be baptized. We do not, however, practice infant baptism. We recommend that children be no younger than 4 or 5 before being baptized.
 

Practical Questions

Can My Family Be Baptized Together?
Yes! If each family member understands fully the meaning of baptism, and each one has personally placed their trust in Christ for salvation, we encourage families to be baptized at the same time. It is a wonderful expression of commitment. However, it is important to remember that baptism is a personal statement of faith, not a family tradition. It is usually not wise to delay your baptism while waiting on other family members to accept Christ, particularly children. This puts an undue pressure on them, and delays your obedience.

What Should I Wear?
Both men and women should bring shorts and a dark shirt to wear. Bring a few towels and a plastic bag for your wet clothes. We will provide changing rooms.

What Will Happen That Day?
Please arrive 20 minutes early and go to the Baptismal in the Foyer. You will be greeted by our Baptism Coordinators who will assist you. As the baptism begins, one of the Pastors will briefly explain the meaning of baptism. Once it is your turn the Pastor will introduce you. The Pastor will ask your name and a brief testimony of your faith in Jesus Christ. We encourage you to invite all your relatives and friends to attend your baptism.

What Should I Share In My Testimony?
Your testimony of faith should include the following three parts: 1) How long you have been coming to Sonrise, 2) When you received Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord, and 3) Why you are getting baptized. We will introduce you and then let you share your testimony. Please prepare your testimony in writing and come prepared to read it to your family and friends.

What About Being Baptized Twice?
We recommend that you be baptized again if you have not been baptized by immersion since you became a believer. It doesn’t devalue a prior experience but simply reflects your desire to be baptized in the same way Jesus was baptized. Every Sonrise member has been baptized by immersion as Jesus demonstrated and commanded us to follow.

What If I Have Special Needs?
Our Pastors can perform a private baptism in special circumstances.

When is the Baptism Class?
Please Sign-up for Baptism and you will be emailed the dates of the next class. At the Baptism class we will set a date and time to videotape your baptism testimony.