The purpose of this page is to explain baptism and the necessary steps to be baptized at Relevant Community Church. We consider it an honor to walk with you as you take this next step on your spiritual journey.

WHAT RELEVANT BELIEVES ABOUT BAPTISM

Who Should Be Baptized?
We believe the Bible teaches that the blood of Jesus Christ, poured out in his death on the cross, paid the full price for our sin. We believe Christ’s resurrection proclaimed his victory over the power of sin and eternal death. Therefore, forgiveness of sin and our salvation occur only when a person places his or her faith in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ as the sufficient payment for his or her sin. A Christian, then, is one who is trusting in or depending upon the work of Christ alone for his or her salvation.

If you have believed in Jesus Christ, by asking him to be the forgiver of your sins and the leader of your life, then you are a Christian and ready to be baptized. Just like a bride and groom show their devotion for one another by wearing wedding bands, your baptism is your opportunity to show others you are now a follower of Jesus Christ.

If you have any questions about how to begin a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, please contact us at al@relevantcommunity.org.

What Does Baptizm Mean?
We believe baptism publicly illustrates what has already taken place in a person’s heart when they put their faith in Jesus. It is a way of showing others you have entered into a relationship with Jesus Christ. It is important to understand that baptism does not “save” you. You are “saved” only by faith in Jesus. Baptism is a demonstration that you already are “saved” and are a follower of Christ. It tells the world you have:

• Trusted Jesus Christ as your forgiver and leader.
• Publicly declared your new association to follow Jesus – someone other than whom you have been following before.
• Identified with Jesus Christ in his death and resurrection, illustrated by going under the water (dead to your old life), then rising again (new life). It is a symbolic water grave that we descend into and rise out of.
• Been washed clean of your sins and forgiven by Jesus’ death on the cross.
• Connected yourself to the community of faith – called the Church.

Because Jesus instructed his followers to be baptized, baptism is an act of obedience. While the act of baptism does not save us, it demonstrates our new relationship with Jesus.

Others hold varying thoughts and traditions related to baptism, but we baptize by immersion at Relevant Community Church because we see this as the only form of baptism illustrated in the Bible.

What About Infant Baptism?
Some denominations choose to baptize (christen) infants. While we recognize the right of other churches to practice infant baptism, we understand the Bible to teach that only believers in Jesus Christ are to be baptized. Baptism does not make you a believer; it simply shows you already believe. At Relevant, we practice the dedication of infants, rather than the baptism of infants. For more information on dedicating your child, contact us at al@relevantcommunity.org.

When Should One Be Baptized?
There is no reason to delay! As soon as you have put your faith in Jesus you can, and should, be baptized. If you’re waiting until you’re perfect, you’ll never be ready.

What is the Process?
We do baptisms three times a year at Relevant. The baptism process at Relevant Community Church has been designed to be both simple and meaningful. Simply complete the sign up here and we will be in contact with you to answer your questions and assist you in the process. If you think baptism may be the next step but aren’t sure, listen to Pastor Ronnie’s message on baptism available here. If you have further questions and would like to talk to someone, we would love to hear from you. Simply contact us at al@relevantcommunity.org.