Baptism
Baptism is the act of a believing Christian who wants to publicly confess their personal commitment to Jesus Christ and to identify with His death, burial and resurrection. It is the symbolic burial of the “old person” (one’s sinful past) and the rising again to new life in Christ. The act of Baptism can be defined as an outward expression of an inward decision.
Our English word “baptism” is translated from the Greek word “baptizo.” It literally means, “to dip, immerse or plunge.” Baptism illustrates Jesus' death, burial and resurrection.
Christ died for our sins ... He was buried ... and He rose again. 1 Cor. 15: 3-4 Baptism also serves as a “picture” of new life as a Christian.
By our baptism then, we are buried with Him and share His death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead... so also we may live a new life. Romans 6:4
Baptism does not make you a Christian. It is a demonstration that you already believe. It is important to understand that Baptism alone does not “save" you. You are “saved” by your faith in Jesus alone.
We are baptized because we seek to follow the example set by Christ and because Christ commanded it. Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river. Mark 1: 9
Jesus said, Go then, to all people everywhere and make them my disciples, baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit... Matthew 28:19-20
As soon as you repent and believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior! There is no reason to delay! Conversions in the early church were immediately followed by Baptism (Acts 2:40, 8:12-13, 8:36-38, 10:47-48, 16:33). As soon as you have decided to trust Christ with your life, you can and should be baptized. If you're waiting until you're perfect, you'll never be ready.
Congratulations! At the conclusion of many of our services people will be baptized. Please feel the freedom to respond to the invitation for Baptism. If you would, please call the office and let us know of your intention to follow this command of our Lord. Be sure to bring some clothes that you don't mind getting wet! After the Celebration, we'll go up to the Baptism pool in the front of the Sanctuary. Be sure to tell your parents and invite family and friends. Also, if you're in a small group, let them know so they can come and celebrate with you!
Communion
On the first Sunday of each month, believers at SCCC share food, fellowship and the Lord’s Supper with our Home Fellowships. This was the practice of the early church as believers went “from house to house” communing together (Act 2:42-47).
The Bible instructs us to proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes for His Church (1 Corinthians 11:26). When we celebrate Communion we honor our Lord and receive His encouragement to us as His body. It is also a testimony to the world of what Christ has done for us and that we are anticipating His return.
We encourage each covenant member at SCCC to be established in a Home Fellowship Group and to take Communion with his or her group monthly.{mosimage}
For additional information on the biblical basis and meaning of Communion, you may print a copy of “The Lord’s Supper,” a doctrinal statement on Communion.
