Getting Baptised at Calvary Chapel
"And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen." Matthew 28:18-20
Water baptism is a public, outward testimony that indicates a personal, inward faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. It is an outward demonstartion of the inner change that has already occurred in the believer's life, when he or she was "born again" through repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (Galatians 2:20; Colossians 2:12; 2 Corinthians 5:17).
All born-again believers in Jesus Christ — and only believers — should be baptised because Jesus Christ commanded it (Matthew 28:19), and because we love the Lord. Jesus said, "If you love Me, keep My commandments" (John 14:15). Throughout the book of Acts, we read how the early church gave importance to water baptism (2:41; 8:12,38; 9:18; 10:47-48; 16:15,33; 19:3-5).
Below you will find a brief explanation of what expect when you are baptised at Calvary Chapel.
Water baptism is a public, outward testimony that indicates a personal, inward faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. It is an outward demonstartion of the inner change that has already occurred in the believer's life, when he or she was "born again" through repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (Galatians 2:20; Colossians 2:12; 2 Corinthians 5:17).
All born-again believers in Jesus Christ — and only believers — should be baptised because Jesus Christ commanded it (Matthew 28:19), and because we love the Lord. Jesus said, "If you love Me, keep My commandments" (John 14:15). Throughout the book of Acts, we read how the early church gave importance to water baptism (2:41; 8:12,38; 9:18; 10:47-48; 16:15,33; 19:3-5).
Below you will find a brief explanation of what expect when you are baptised at Calvary Chapel.
Getting Baptised: What to expect
Here's a quick guide to what your baptism day will look like, so you know just what to expect.
What should I bring?
Please bring a towel and a change of clothes to be baptised in — shorts and a t-shirt, or a shirt and trousers, whatever you prefer. Please be mindful that white tops can see-through when wet.
Do I need to share my testimony?
Before entering the water, you will be invited forward to share a short testimony of how you came to know Jesus as your personal Lord and Saviour. Around 2–5 minutes is a good length. We recommend writing out your testimony and reading it, especially if you are not used to speaking in public.
We recognise that many people are nervous about speaking in public — this is completely normal — and we don't want fear of public speaking to stand in the way of someone being baptised. If you are unsure about this, please speak to a member of the church leadership, who will be happy to help.
What happens when I get in the water?
Following your testimony, you'll be invited to enter the water, where two of our pastors will be waiting to welcome you. You'll be asked two questions: "Do you believe in Jesus?" and "Do you commit to following Jesus?" Your answer to both is simply "I do."
What happens during the baptism itself?
Once you've answered, you'll be baptised. The baptism is performed by two of our pastors — just keep your legs straight and let them do the work. They will gently lower you backwards under the water and bring you back up. You're welcome to hold your nose if you like.
What happens afterwards?
Before you leave the water, the pastors will pray for you while the congregation sings a worship song. Then you're free to leave the pool, where your towel will be waiting. You can go and get changed straight away, or stay and watch the rest of the baptisms — whatever you prefer. There will be people on hand to help.
What should I bring?
Please bring a towel and a change of clothes to be baptised in — shorts and a t-shirt, or a shirt and trousers, whatever you prefer. Please be mindful that white tops can see-through when wet.
Do I need to share my testimony?
Before entering the water, you will be invited forward to share a short testimony of how you came to know Jesus as your personal Lord and Saviour. Around 2–5 minutes is a good length. We recommend writing out your testimony and reading it, especially if you are not used to speaking in public.
We recognise that many people are nervous about speaking in public — this is completely normal — and we don't want fear of public speaking to stand in the way of someone being baptised. If you are unsure about this, please speak to a member of the church leadership, who will be happy to help.
What happens when I get in the water?
Following your testimony, you'll be invited to enter the water, where two of our pastors will be waiting to welcome you. You'll be asked two questions: "Do you believe in Jesus?" and "Do you commit to following Jesus?" Your answer to both is simply "I do."
What happens during the baptism itself?
Once you've answered, you'll be baptised. The baptism is performed by two of our pastors — just keep your legs straight and let them do the work. They will gently lower you backwards under the water and bring you back up. You're welcome to hold your nose if you like.
What happens afterwards?
Before you leave the water, the pastors will pray for you while the congregation sings a worship song. Then you're free to leave the pool, where your towel will be waiting. You can go and get changed straight away, or stay and watch the rest of the baptisms — whatever you prefer. There will be people on hand to help.
Any Other Questions?
Please get in touch — we're happy to help. You can contact the church by email at contact@ccox.church.
We're praying for you, and rejoicing in the goodness of the Lord!
We're praying for you, and rejoicing in the goodness of the Lord!