Baptism

What we believe about baptism.

We believe the bible is very clear on who can be baptised, why they are baptised, and where they are baptised. And that the person themselves makes this decision.

Some churches baptise/christen children as babies and when they are older confirm the decision the parents made for them as a baby. We do not do this at APEC but would have a thanksgiving/celebration service for the child and parents, thanking God for the gift of the child.

Who can be baptised.

Anyone who recognises they are a sinner before a Holy God and believes that when Jesus died on the cross He was atoning for their sins past, present and future and who make a personnel profession in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour, and seek to allow Him to live in and through them by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Why are they baptised

This is an outward demonstration to family friends and the church that they have died to themselves and want to live for Jesus Christ. This baptism is by full emersion.

The person goes into the water, as they go under the water they are saying they are dying to their old self and identifying with the death of Jesus on the cross. As they come up out of the water they are identifying with the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, who gives eternal life to all who believe. There is nothing special about the water or the words, this is an identification and proclamation of a changed life.

Where are they baptised.

 Any where there is water, in the sea, a swimming pool, a river. At APEC we have tank in the floor at the front of the church for this purpose.

 Verses from the bible concerning baptism:

 Matthew chapter 28 verse 19,
Jesus said “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and  of  the Son and of the Holy Spirit”

Acts chapter 2 verse 38
“Repent and be baptised, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit”

Acts chapter 6 verse 3-5
“Don’t you know that all of us who were baptised into Christ Jesus were baptised into his death. We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”

A suggested reading about baptism is a little booklet called “Believe and be baptised”

If you would like a booklet or more information please email

contact@apec-coventry.org.uk