The New Testament clearly presents baptism as an ordinance to be observed by every person who has received the benefits of Christ’s atoning work and has become his disciple. At Four Oaks, we practice and teach believer’s baptism by immersion as a symbolic demonstration of fellowship and union with Jesus Christ in the likeness of his death and resurrection.
The Practice of Baptism at Four Oaks
Immersion: We practice what is called "baptism by immersion." A person is lowered completely under water seems to be the pattern of the New Testament and a fuller picture of spiritual baptism as defined above. (Mk. 1:5, 10; John 3: 23; Acts 8: 36-39; Col. 2:12)
Believers: The pattern within the New Testament is that those who received baptism had already believed in Jesus Christ for salvation. We continue with this practice by only baptizing those who are old enough to understand what it means to profess his/her faith in Jesus. We do allow for parents to have a service of dedication for infants or young children in which they, along with the congregation, pledge to nurture the child in the Lord's instruction and for His glory. We do not, however, baptize or christen infants or young children.
Public: We believe that baptism is most effective as a public act. Baptism is a public profession of one's faith that can both edify the church and be a testimony to others regarding the gospel of Jesus Christ. (Rom 10: 9-10; Mark 8: 38)
Tied to Membership: Every member and every person pursuing membership at Four Oaks should be baptized. As baptism marks a person's beginning in Christ, it also marks the beginning of a person's relationship with Christ's body, the Church. It was through the ordinance of baptism that the first century believers were added to the church (Acts 2:41).
Before you are baptized, there is a process we ask each candidate to complete. Adults should watch our "Baptism 101" class designed to answer your questions about this ordinance and then complete an application. Children and youth work with a mentor to complete a baptism preparation process laid out here. Contact Pastor Scott if you are interested in pursuing baptism at Four Oaks.