You already know that baptism is a vital step in the discipleship process that Jesus calls his people to. But how do you share that with your congregation?
If you're interested in having a Baptism Sunday and you want to share that with your congregation, here's a sample letter I've used. You can take it and edit it at your convenience.
Letter For What to Say About Baptism
Dear ____________,
It’s been great having you at our church here lately! I’ve enjoyed getting to know you a bit better.
I noticed that you requested more info about baptism on your Connection Card, so here you are:
Baptism is basically a testimony of what Jesus has done for you in washing away your sin. Baptism doesn’t save anyone, or guarantee someone a ‘ticket to heaven.’ Some people kind of view it as a magical ceremony that protects them from evil... or keeps bad things from happening in their life.
But... that's not really the way it is presented in the Bible.
This might seem weird – but I encourage people NOT to be baptized unless they are committed to what it means! I’m not interested in how many people I can dip in water, I want to know that people here in our city are really becoming followers of Jesus!
So what does baptism actually mean? Baptism means at least four things:
Baptism declares your faith in Jesus Christ.
“… they came to some water. And the eunuch said, "See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?” Then Philip said, "If you believe with all your heart, you may." And he answered, "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." (Acts 8:36-37) Baptism says, “I believe, and I’m willing to admit it!”
Baptism symbolizes your death to your old life.
“Shall we continue in sin...? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it? Don’t you know that every one of you who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?” (Romans 6:1-3) Baptism says, “I’ve repented of sin, and I’m willing to prove it!”
Baptism announces your new life in Christ.
“For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.” (Romans 6:4, NLT) Baptism says, “I’m a new person, and I’m willing to live it!”
Baptism celebrates your inclusion in God’s family.
“For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body – whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free...” (1 Corinthians 12:13) Baptism says, “I belong, and I’m willing to show it!”
So I think you’ve got two options. Here’s what I’d encourage you to do:
Option 1: You feel like that you’re ready for baptism. If so, great – send me a text right now at 555-555-5555, and let me know. I’ll call you and set up a meeting, and give you a cool study on baptism called "The Baptism Challenge" and some more info about the service, so you can invite friends and family.
Option 2: You feel like you're not actually ready for baptism right now. Hey, I understand when people are still investigating this life following Jesus. If you’re not ready to say ‘Yes, I believe and I'm ready to go!’ then I encourage you to text and let me know, and then just keep coming to church, and investigating. Feel free to ask any question you want… I’m always glad to answer!
Blessings,
___________________
P.S. If you're not 100% ready for baptism, would you be interested in a quick Bible reading plan new Christians who just want to get a good overview of the Bible? If so, you can get one from me.
More Resources for What To Say About Baptism
Baptism Letter to Church in Google Docs
Want the Letter in Google Docs? You can get it instantly by clicking here.
Baptism Bible Study to prepare your congregation
This is the Bible study I talked about in the letter above.
Want to download a free copy of it? Drop your name and email here:
How to Share a Baptism Testimony Training
Some of your congregation are probably wondering what to say about baptism. I wrote this post for my congregation teaching them how to prepare for baptism by writing out their baptism testimony.
Baptism Social Media Graphics to Share with your Baptism Letter
I use these with my congregation when we have a baptism Sunday coming up... especially with the
Conclusion: Baptism Resources to help make disciples
If you need more discipleship resources, consider getting your disciples involved in a baptism Bible study. To learn more about the Baptism Challenge, check out this link.
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