10. BAPTISM

The ceremony of water baptism is performed by immersion, for the forgiveness of sins, upon true repentance and acceptance of Christ’s sacrifice.  After this ceremony, and as a result, one receives the baptism of the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands.  Baptism symbolizes the renunciation of the past sinful way of life, the burial of the old man in a watery grave, and the emergence of a new, Spirit-led man living with Christ’s mind and following in His footsteps. 

Matthew 3:13-16;  Acts 2:38;  Romans 6:1-8;  Colossians 2:12

11. LAYING ON OF HANDS

The laying on of hands is an act performed on special occasions, such as for the receiving of God’s Holy Spirit after baptism, at ordination, anointing of the sick, or for other special purposes. 

Matthew 19:13-15;  Acts 6:5-6;  8:17-18;  13:3;  I Timothy 4:14;  Hebrews 6:2

26. THE CHURCH OF GOD

The church is the spiritual body of Christ, a group of persons called out of God and impregnated with His Holy Spirit.  As a spiritual body, the church is made up of baptized, Spirit-led individuals who are scattered around the world. 

I Corinthians 12:12-14, 27;  Colossians 3:15