Christian Living: What Does Baptism Mean and How Can You Take This Step in Memphis?
- Boundless Team
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
Taking the step to be baptized is one of the most significant moments in a believer’s journey. It is a public celebration of a private decision to follow Jesus Christ. If you are in Memphis, Cordova, or anywhere in the 901 area, or even if you are joining us from across the globe, this is your guide to understanding the biblical meaning of baptism and how you can sign up today.
What Does Baptism Mean and How Do I Sign Up?
Water baptism is a public declaration of your faith in Jesus Christ, symbolizing your death to sin and resurrection to a new life. In Memphis, you can sign up at FA Memphis by visiting famemphis.org/baptism-signup. If you are outside the area, join our global community at Boundless Online Church.
The Biblical Meaning of Water Baptism
At First Assembly Memphis, we believe that water baptism is an essential "next step" for every follower of Jesus. It isn't just a church tradition or a religious ritual; it is a direct command from Jesus Himself. In the Great Commission, Jesus told His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, "baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28:19).
When we talk about baptism, we are talking about an ordinance.
Definition: Ordinance An ordinance is a symbolic practice commanded by Jesus Christ that serves as a visible sign of an inward spiritual grace. In the Assemblies of God, we recognize two ordinances: Water Baptism and Holy Communion.
Why We Baptize by Immersion
You might notice that we practice baptism by immersion. This means the person being baptized goes completely under the water. We do this for two main reasons:
The Example of Jesus: Jesus was baptized by immersion in the Jordan River.
The Biblical Imagery: The Greek word for baptize is baptizō, which literally means "to submerge" or "to dip."
Immersion perfectly illustrates the spiritual reality described in Romans 6:4: we are "buried with Him through baptism into death" and raised to "walk in newness of life."
The Assemblies of God Perspective: Fundamental Truth #6
First Assembly Memphis is rooted in the doctrine of the Assemblies of God. Water baptism is specifically addressed in Fundamental Truth #6: The Ordinances of the Church.
According to this biblical standard, water baptism is intended for those who have already repented of their sins and have placed their trust in Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord. It is a "declaration to the world" that the believer has died with Christ and has been raised with Him.
Key Point: Baptism Does Not Save You It is important to understand that while baptism is an act of obedience, it is not what saves you. We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone. Baptism is the outward sign of the inward change that has already happened in your heart.
Why Should You Be Baptized?
If you have recently made a decision to follow Jesus, or if you have been a believer for years but never took this public step, here are three reasons why you should sign up for baptism today:
To Follow the Example of Jesus: If the Son of God saw it as important to be baptized, we should follow in His footsteps.
To Obey Christ’s Command: Jesus didn't suggest baptism; He commanded it for those who follow Him.
To Make a Public Declaration: There is power in standing before your church family and the world to say, "I belong to Jesus." It strengthens your faith and encourages others.
What to Expect at FA Memphis (Local 901)
If you are local to Memphis, Cordova, Arlington, Bartlett, or the surrounding 901 area, we would be honored to celebrate your baptism at our physical campus.
The Process:
Sign Up: Fill out the form at famemphis.org/baptism-signup.
Conversation: One of our pastoral team members will reach out to hear your story and answer any questions you might have.
The Day Of: We provide everything you need, including a "I Have Decided" t-shirt, towels, and a changing area. You just need to bring a heart ready to worship!
We often hold baptism services during our Sunday morning gatherings so the entire FA Memphis family can cheer you on. It is a high-energy, joyful time of celebration!
The Global Step: Boundless Online Church
We understand that not everyone can make it to our Memphis location. Through Boundless Online Church, we serve a global community of believers who are homebound, traveling, or living in areas without a Spirit-filled local church.
If you are a part of our Boundless community, we still want to help you take this step. We can help you find a sister church in your local area, or if you are visiting Memphis soon, we can schedule your baptism during your visit. Baptism is about the Kingdom, not just a building.
Common Questions About Baptism
Should children be baptized? We believe baptism is for those who are old enough to understand their need for a Savior and have made a personal decision to follow Him. For younger children, we offer Baby Dedication, which is a ceremony where parents commit to raising their child in a God-honoring home.
What if I was baptized as an infant? In the Assemblies of God, we practice "believer's baptism." If you were baptized as a baby, we view that as a beautiful decision made by your parents. However, once you make your own personal decision to follow Christ, we encourage you to be baptized again as a public declaration of your faith.
What should I bring? At FA Memphis, we try to make it as easy as possible. Bring a change of clothes (something dark that won't become transparent when wet) and a plastic bag for your wet clothes. We’ll handle the rest!
Your Next Step Starts Today
Whether you are in the heart of Memphis or watching from the other side of the world, God is calling you to a life of obedience and "newness of life." Don't let hesitation or "feeling not ready enough" stop you. If you have placed your trust in Jesus, you are ready.
Take the Step: Are you ready to declare your faith to the world? We would love to walk with you through this process.
If you're in Memphis, Cordova, Arlington, Bartlett, or the 901, join us in person and sign up here: 🌐 www.famemphis.org/baptism-signup
Outside the area? Join our online church community to find your next step: 🌐 www.boundlessonlinechurch.org
Community Connection & Support
Phone: (901) 213-7341
Dual Invite: Visit famemphis.org for local Memphis updates or boundlessonlinechurch.org to join us from anywhere.
Prayer Line: Need prayers as you prepare for this big step? Text us day or night at 1-901-213-7341. (Note: This line is for prayer and pastoral support, not emergency services. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, please call 911.)
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