an outward sign
of inward change
Baptism is an outward display of our inward faith and is shared with other believers after someone has already placed their faith in Jesus Christ for Eternal Life. Baptism symbolizes both the sacrifice of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ who redeemed us and how through our faith in Christ we are transformed from death to everlasting life. At UHBC we love to celebrate with believers in their public advertisement of the redemption and justification of Jesus Christ in their lives!
What Does It Mean to Be a Believer?
The word "Gospel" means good news and at UHBC we want everyone to know the good news of Jesus Christ. Every person is searching for something in life to find fulfillment, joy, and a purpose. We believe that based on God's Word (the Bible) that purpose is only found in Jesus Christ. A believer is someone who has believed or trusted in Jesus Christ as the answer to life. Consider the following questions and answers from the Gospel of John:
What is Eternal Life?
Eternal life refers to a personal relationship with God. Eternal Life is described as being abundant (exceeding, above measure or rank, excellent, superior) and because God is Eternal (without end), this relationship is unending.
- John 10:10b - "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly."
- John 17:3 - "And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent."
Who gives Eternal Life?
God through Jesus Christ
- John 17:2 - "As You have given Him authority over all flesh, that He (Jesus) should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him."
How do you receive Eternal Life?
Believe (trust, place your faith) in Jesus Christ (because of who He is and what He did)
- John 3:16 - "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."
What happens if I don't believe in Jesus for Eternal Life?
You continue to be separated from God and under His judgment
- John 3:18 - "He who believes in Him is not condemned, but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God."
A few questions to consider:
Do you believe that Jesus is God's only Son?
Do you believe Jesus ha the authority to give you Eternal Life?
What do you need to do to have Eternal life?
CONCLUSION: If you believe in Jesus Christ, He says you HAVE Eternal Life and this means you are a believer! A believer is someone who has trusted in Jesus Christ for Eternal Life.
Do you believe that Jesus is God's only Son?
Do you believe Jesus ha the authority to give you Eternal Life?
What do you need to do to have Eternal life?
CONCLUSION: If you believe in Jesus Christ, He says you HAVE Eternal Life and this means you are a believer! A believer is someone who has trusted in Jesus Christ for Eternal Life.
Interested in Baptism?
After someone has placed their faith in Christ for eternal life, we encourage them to be baptized by immersion as Jesus Christ our example. This is often one of the first public steps a new believer takes in their discipleship journey and an easy way to reflect Christ and share with others your life change. If you are interested in being baptized or learning more about baptism, let one of our staff or deacons know and we would love to celebrate with what Christ has done in your life with you or email Pastor Rodney.
More questions?
Do you have more questions before joining our class? Reach out to us and we could be happy to help.