When we say that we are 'saved,' what do we mean? In short, we are saying that we have accepted Jesus into our hearts. The Bible says “if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved” (Romans 10:9). By trusting Jesus as your Savior, you will be forgiven of your sins and born into the family of God. We would love to welcome you into the family and help you grow in your relationship with God. If you’re ready to accept Jesus, watch this video, follow the instructions and then click the button below to tell us about your decision.
Each week, we extend an opportunity for a person to respond to the gospel during one of four invitations:
If you have ever accepted Christ as your Savior and invited Him into your heart through confession, repentance, and prayer, then you are saved. Your salvation is not based upon emotions, speaking in tongues or whatever others may say. Your salvation is based upon the Word of God which you have confessed. 1 John 5:13 reads: “These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.”
As you continue to read your Bible daily, attend Bible Study and worship God, you will grow in your faith and in the Word and know without a doubt that you are saved. John 8:31 says: Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in my Word, you are My disciples indeed.”
Joining a church is a big decision, and we are honored that you are considering connecting with us, either through our Maryland campus or our online campus.
You can become a member of FBCG based on your Christian experience or as a candidate for baptism. You can express interest in joining the church by:
Although He knew no sin, Jesus demonstrated to us that baptism is an outward expression of the spiritual change that takes place when a person receives the free gift of salvation. The Bible tells us we don’t get baptized to get saved; rather we are baptized because of our relationship with the One who died so we can have eternal life. It is therefore extremely important that baptism occur after a person has made a conscious decision to repent of their sins and profess their faith in Jesus Christ.
Our Baptism service is normally held the Tuesday before the 4th Sunday at the Ministry Center. A virtual option is also available. For information, please call 301-773-3600.
One of the steps to becoming a member is to attend our new member classes.
Complete the three FBCG New Members Classes, in any order. Options offered: In-person, On Demand or Virtual.
New Members Class for children ages 7 - 11 years old
The ministry will accept a 6-year-old; however, parents must stay with the 6 and 7-year-old children to assist them in class and help to explain class content when needed.
New Members Class for ages 12+
1. In-Person, Sundays 10 a.m. ET., Room 1211 (Worship Center)
2. Virtual, Thursdays 7 p.m. ET. Registration is required.
Self-Paced New Members Classes (all classes to be completed in its entirety)
Registration is required.
This course is geared toward new believers but open to all. It covers the basic principles of Christianity in a relaxed, engaging environment. Each class starts with a general lesson followed by small group interactions. Attendees find themselves refreshed in their faith and energized to seek higher levels of commitment.
The Alpha Course is a 10-week class that covers the basics of Christianity. It answers questions like 'Who is Jesus? Why did He die?' Each week, students gather to share a time of fellowship, participate in a lesson on the topic of the week and then gather into small groups for discussion. The lesson each week acts as the springboard for small group discussions.
While thousands of people attend First Baptist on a weekly basis, you would be surprised how much smaller the church feels when you choose to get involved! With more than 100 service and teaching ministries, we’re confident that FBCG has opportunities that fit your spiritual gifts and life needs. Explore our ministries to determine which one(s) may be right for you!