We are so glad you’re exploring baptism! Baptism is one of the two ordinances Jesus gave the church to practice. An ordinance is a Christ-ordered, outward sign administered by the church as a visible and experiential expression of the saving truth of the gospel.

Because baptism is a symbol of an inward, spiritual reality, it is reserved for those who have personally placed their faith in Jesus Christ—trusting in His death for their sins, His burial, and His resurrection on the third day.

If you have not yet trusted Christ as Savior and Lord, now is a wonderful time to consider His claims and respond to His invitation to eternal life. 

If you have already placed your trust in Christ, baptism is the next step of obedience. On this page, you’ll discover what baptism is, why it matters, and how we practice it here at Firewheel.

What Is Baptism?

1. Baptism Is an Act of Obedience

Baptism is Jesus’ first command for new disciples. In Matthew 28:19, He tells His followers:

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

Throughout the New Testament, we see this pattern repeated: when someone believes in Jesus, baptism follows right away (Acts 2:38–41; Acts 8:36–39; Acts 9:17–19; Acts 16:30–34). Baptism is the natural first step in following Christ.

2. Baptism Is a Symbol

A wedding ring doesn’t make someone married—it represents a deeper covenant. In the same way, baptism doesn’t save us but powerfully symbolizes the spiritual reality of salvation.

The Apostle Paul describes it this way in Romans 6:3–4:

“We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead… we too might walk in newness of life.”

Baptism pictures our union with Christ: dying with Him, being buried with Him, and rising with Him to new life. It also symbolizes the cleansing of our sins, reminding us that by faith in Christ we are washed clean.

3. Baptism Is an Affirmation

Baptism is not done in isolation. It always involves the church. When a believer is baptized, the church is affirming that person’s profession of faith as genuine. This is why baptism at Firewheel includes sharing your salvation story.

We take this seriously—not as a hurdle, but as a way to encourage you, strengthen your assurance, and help the whole church rejoice with you in your new life in Christ.

Why Baptism Matters

Baptism is a gift for both the believer and the church. For the believer, it is a step of obedience that demonstrates faith and discipleship. For the church, it is a visible testimony of God’s saving work and a reminder of the gospel we all share.

In baptism, you declare:
 • Jesus is Lord of my life.
 • I belong to Him.
 • I am a new creation—the old has passed away, and the new has come (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you are ready to be baptized, or if you’d simply like to learn more, we would love to walk with you. Click here to begin the process, and a pastor will follow up with you.

Baptism is not the finish line—it’s the starting point of a lifelong journey with Jesus. And we are excited to walk with you every step of the way.