B is for Believer’s Baptism
One of my favorite moments in the church I serve might surprise you. It doesn’t have anything to do with music (shocker, I know!), but it certainly has everything to do with worship. The moments in our services that we corporately observe someone stepping into the baptismal waters to declare to their family, their church, and community, that they have put their faith in Jesus Christ is one of the most powerful scenes in all of life.
We see in scripture two ordinances or sacraments that was established by Christ for His bride, communion and baptism. In both of these physical acts, Christ has given us an outward symbol that represents a spiritual occurrence and an inward transformation. Just as the wine and bread at the Lord’s table signify the body and blood, the baptismal waters also signify gospel story as we, the sinner, move from death to life in Christ.
We must remember 2 primary things when it comes to the act and ordinance of baptism. First, that the bible commands baptism for those who put their faith in Christ. Baptism was certainly not a “post-Jesus” act but actually we see the symbolism of water baptisms throughout scripture in the act of washing, purifying and cleansing (See Exodus 19 and 40, Numbers 8 and 31, Deuteronomy 23:9–11, 2 Kings 5:9–14 for a few examples) Jesus also set a beautiful example for all of us when He was baptized himself by John in Matthew 3. And with this act, He began his glorious ministry. Jesus is declaring to all of us that Baptism is a beautiful act of announcing to ourselves, our family, and the world the faith and belief we have within us. This act continued through Jesus’ ministry (John 3:22) and the mantel was then carried by the apostles, the early church, and then continue throughout church history.
The second principal we must remember is that Baptist is not part of the receiving of salvation, but rather a sign of an internal transformational that as occurred. Throughout scripture, faith always precedes baptism. (Acts 2:38 & Romans 6:3–5) Therefore, baptism was not designed for babies and infants who have not come to faith on their own accord, but rather for believers who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ.
Since baptism is an important part in the life and service of the church, here’s 3 ideas of how to utilize this practice in creative ways in a church service.
- Inside the Church Service
Let’s start with the basics, putting baptism inside a church service for the community to witness is nothing short of powerful and beautiful. Although, this ritual can be done outside a church service (which I’ve done many times) there’s something special and appropriate when done where the congregation can witness as a whole.
2. Within a Worship Song
One of my favorite ways to showcase the element of baptism is to observe multiple baptism inside a congregational worship song. As the people sing, they are also uplifted and inspired by those who are declaring through this act of obedience the faith they have in Christ. This can be such a powerful moment in a service as you give people an immediate chance to respond in praise after witnessing such a moving testimony.
3. Combine Baptism with a Short Testimony
Baptism is a serious act of worship and we as leaders should fight for it to not become a monotonous and routine practice. A favorite ritual with Baptism is to combine it with a short testimony either from the candidate themselves, or the pastor who shares the story of the one who is being baptized. This makes each baptism fresh, unique, and meaningful as each story is told. There are few things as powerful as a testimony of how Christ has brought someone back to life and by sharing stories before baptism, we are constantly reminded of the power of the gospel.