WHAT is baptism?
The word "baptism" is from the Greek word baptisma meaning "to immerse" or to "dunk under water."
It is a physical picture of being saved from death.
"Those who disobeyed God long ago when God waited patiently while Noah was building his boat. Only eight people were saved from drowning in that terrible flood. And this is a picture of baptism, which now saves you by the power of Jesus Christ's resurrection. Baptism is not a removal of dirt from your body; it is an appeal to God from a clean conscience." 1 Peter 3:20-21
It is identifying ourselves with Jesus' death, burial and resurrection.
"Have you forgotten that when we became Christians and were baptized to become one with Christ Jesus, we died with him? For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives." Romans 6:3-4
"For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ." Galatians 3:27
"For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized. And with him you were raised to a new life because you trusted the mighty power of God, who raised Christ from the dead." Colossians 2:12
WHO should be baptized?
Everyone who receives Christ Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
Admit you are a sinner...
"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Romans 3:23
Believe that Jesus died for your sins...
"But God demonstrated His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8
Commit to Jesus as your Lord and Savior...
"For if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved." Romans 10:9-10
"For 'Whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.'" Romans 10:13
Salvation is not based on baptism...
"Anyone who believes and is baptized will be saved. But anyone who refuses to believe will be condemned." Mark 16:16
"God saved you by His special favor when you believed. You can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it." Ephesians 2:8-9
WHY should I be baptized?
It's the first step of obedience in being a disciple or a follower of Jesus and is a command from Jesus.
Jesus told his disciples, “I have been given complete authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. Be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of age.” Matthew 28:18-20
Peter replied. “Each of you must turn from your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2:38
"And now, why delay? Get up and be baptized, and have your sins washed away, calling on the name of the Lord." Acts 22:16
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
I was baptized as a baby, should I be baptized again?
Yes, you should be baptized. Baby baptisms are not found in the Bible. The parent is making the decision for the child. It is impossible for a baby, at that time, to make this life changing decision to commit their lives to Jesus.
Do I have to be fully immersed to be baptized?
Yes, the original Greek word for baptism means to fully immerse. Baptism is a physical picture of identifying with Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection.
Exceptions can be made for physically handicapped or immobile persons.
May children be baptized? If so, at what age?
Yes, they may. The parent must be sure, however, their child understands their salvation in Jesus and have committed their lives to Him. There is no specific age requirement, but be in prayer and open to the leading of the Holy Spirit to know when your child is ready.
May a parent/spouse assist in the baptism?
Yes, it is strongly encouraged that the husband or the father of the child assist in baptism. The Bible says the husband or the father in the home is designed to be the spiritual leader.
May I be baptized again even though I was baptized years ago at a different church?
Yes, nowhere in the Bible does it state that a believer may only be baptized once. Many people have been baptized again as a recommitment or reminder to their commitment in following Jesus.
Do I have to be baptized in order to serve?
Yes, serving the body takes commitment and obedience to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Since baptism is the first step of obedience in following Jesus, it demonstrates a pure heart in serving the Lord.
Special Instructions
“Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” --Matthew 28:19