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Discover Why This Ceremony Marks the Starting Point for Those Who Wish to Experience the New Birth
“Do you accept the Lord Jesus as your only and sufficient Savior?” This is the question the pastor asks just moments before a person is immersed in water during the baptism ceremony. Baptism is one of the core declarations of the Christian faith. This act symbolizes the decision of those who believe in the Gospel, as described in,
He who has believed and has been baptized shall be saved… (Mark 16:16)
The Meaning of Water Baptism
Water baptism represents the burial of one’s old self. It’s a decision to live according to the Word of God, sincere repentance for past mistakes, and committing to a transformed life. When a person is immersed in the water, it is the burial of their old ways. As they emerge from the water, they are reborn into a new life with the Lord Jesus.
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
The Importance of Understanding and Repentance
True repentance and understanding are essential before taking this step. The Bible does not advocate child baptism, as young children cannot understand the repentance and commitment involved. Even the Lord Jesus, without sin, chose to be baptized at age 33 to set an example. “He demonstrated that to encounter God, one must truly be born again. The old self cannot achieve that,” explained Bishop Danilo Sgambatti, who is responsible for Baptism at The Universal Church.
It is a misconception to believe that only those who have committed serious wrongs need repentance and baptism. The Word of God says,
There is none righteous, no, not one… They have all turned aside… (Romans 3:10-13)
Bishop Danilo clarifies, “There is no distinction between ‘small’ sins and ‘big’ sins—sin is sin. Many people say, ‘I haven’t done anything wrong; I’m a good person,’ but without accepting the Lord Jesus, they are already in sin, failing to recognize that He is the Lord of our lives.”
At The Universal Church, no formal course is required to prepare for baptism, but one essential element is necessary: genuine repentance. The candidate for baptism must recognize their sins, confess them to God, and commit to turning away from them. From then on, they cannot practice it again, because they will begin to hate sin since it separates them from their Creator. Repentance is personal and non-transferable. As the Apostle Peter said, “Repent, and let each of you be baptized…” (Acts 2:38). Bishop Danilo emphasizes, “True repentance is everything. When someone sincerely repents, God Himself manifests the gift of repentance within them, confirming, ‘I am with you. You’re forgiven.’”
Before the baptism ceremony, individuals meet with a pastor for guidance. On the day of baptism, they should bring a change of clothes as they will be fully immersed in water. For those who cannot be fully immersed due to health reasons, baptism by sprinkling is available, with the water being sprinkled over their head, carrying the same spiritual significance.
Life After Baptism: The Journey Continues
While no preparatory course is required before baptism, those who have been baptized are invited to attend the weekly revival and Bible study meetings every Wednesday to deepen their understanding of their faith.
The purpose of the Wednesday meetings is not only to provide guidance for this new life but also to prepare individuals for the next step: Baptism with the Holy Spirit. This is a transformative experience where the Lord Jesus Himself seals the believer with His Presence, empowering them to help others spiritually through voluntary service.
Those who are starting their journey with the Lord Jesus are also encouraged to meditate daily on the Bible and are also recommended to read the Bible study book In the Footsteps of Jesus by Bishop Edir Macedo.
“When someone is baptized, it’s like the birth of a child. That’s why we recommend the book In the Footsteps of Jesus because they still do not know what to do. It is necessary to teach, nourish with the Word of God, and guide them in what it means to truly be born again and belong to God. These teachings help them grow stronger and open the way for the Holy Spirit to come,” Bishop Danilo concludes.
The church is open daily, and this special meeting is held every Wednesday to strengthen your spiritual life and seek the Holy Spirit. All are welcome regardless of religion, background, or circumstances. Come as you are.
Wednesday at 10 AM, 4 PM, and mainly at 7 PM at The Universal Church. For more information on locations, please call 1-888-332-4141 or text 1-888-312-4141. You may also contact us via our contact form (click here).
For those who live in areas without a location of The Universal Church, you may also connect to our Virtual Church via Zoom Conference.
Contributors:
Núbia Onara (Translated) / Feature Image by Demétrio Koch
