From Jesus’ own baptism to his final words to his followers in Matthew’s gospel, we see that baptism is an essential step for every disciple of Christ.  At Southview we describe the significance of baptism in three key images: 

Dove

IDENTITY

OBEDIENCE

PRESENCE

Baptism symbolizes that through faith in Christ we have been given a new Identity, as a child of God, forgiven and set free from sin. It is a public declaration that our allegiance has shifted from serving self and sin, to serving Christ and His kingdom. 

In this way we have chosen to walk a new pathway of Obedience to Christ. Finally, baptism is a time when we fully embrace the Presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives as the One who empowers us in Christ-likeness and mission. 

Watch the sermon, “Why Baptism?”, for a full explanation of these three guiding concepts.