A symbol of salvation
We are saved by God’s grace through faith in Jesus. Baptism expresses that faith; the water itself does not earn forgiveness or make us worthy of God’s love.
Ephesians 2:8–9
WELCOME HOME
A Place to Worship, Grow, and Belong
MAPLE STREET • YOUR NEXT STEP
Explore Baptism
An outward declaration of an inward change. Celebrate what Jesus has done in your life and take a public step of faith.
Take your next stepWHAT BAPTISM MEANS
A picture of new life in Christ.
Water baptism is a public expression of faith in Jesus Christ. It symbolizes the salvation we receive through Him and shows that we have turned from sin to follow Jesus.
Going beneath the water pictures Christ’s death and burial—and leaving our old life behind. Coming up from the water pictures His resurrection and our new life in Him. Romans 6:3–4 connects baptism with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.
A step of obedience
Jesus instructed His followers to make disciples and baptize them. Baptism is a meaningful response to His invitation to follow Him.
Matthew 28:19–20
A public declaration
Baptism tells your church family that you belong to Jesus. It marks a step in a continuing life of faith, growth, and discipleship.
Acts 2:38–41
OUR CHURCH OF GOD BELIEF
Water baptism by immersion.
The Church of God teaches water baptism by immersion for those who repent, in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.
At Maple Street, we understand baptism as a step that follows repentance and faith in Jesus. Immersion means being lowered beneath the water and raised again, reflecting the biblical picture of death, burial, and new life.
Paraphrased from the Church of God’s official Declaration of Faith. See also Matthew 28:19 and Acts 8:36–38.
QUESTIONS ARE WELCOME
Let’s understand this step together.
Does baptism save me?
Salvation comes through Jesus Christ, by grace through faith. Water baptism symbolizes that salvation and publicly expresses your decision to follow Him. It is an important step of obedience, rather than something that earns salvation.
Who should be baptized?
Those who have repented and placed their faith in Jesus. If you’re still exploring faith, have questions, or are asking on behalf of your child, a pastor can help you understand what this step means.
Is water baptism the same as baptism with the Holy Ghost?
No. The Church of God distinguishes water baptism from baptism with the Holy Ghost. Water baptism is the act of immersion described on this page. A pastor can help explain the Church of God’s belief about the Holy Ghost.
What happens after I express interest?
Our team will talk with you about your faith, answer your questions, and explain preparation and scheduling. Expressing interest does not commit you to a date.
What if I have been baptized before?
Talk with a pastor about your previous baptism and your faith journey. We want to help you make a thoughtful decision.
WE’LL WALK WITH YOU
Ready to explore baptism?
Whether you’re ready to be baptized or simply want to ask questions, we’d love to talk with you.