Baptism
In following the example of Christ, baptism is an act of obedience following a believer’s faith and identification with Christ in his death, burial, and resurrection.
We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.
Romans 6:4
What baptism is
It is a pledge to Christ out of a redeemed heart through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Baptism serves as a means of initiation into the church of Jesus Christ as a public identification with Christ and his body.
Matthew 3:13–17; 28:19–20 · Mark 1:9–11 · Romans 6:3–5 · 1 Peter 3:21 · 1 Corinthians 12:13 · Ephesians 4:5
Who can be baptized?
Anyone may be baptized following repentance of sin and a confession of faith in Jesus Christ.
Scripture does not restrict the age of a baptismal candidate but is clear that each baptismal candidate understands their sin, their need for salvation, and for baptism.
Acts 8:12–17, 36–38 · Acts 10:34–48 · Acts 16:14–15, 30–34
Who can baptize a person?
There is no mandate on who should conduct the baptism.
Jesus, however, commands His disciples to make disciples and baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This indicates that one must be a disciple of Jesus to baptize in the presence of the body of believers.
Matthew 28:18–20
When should a person be baptized?
Baptism is to be conducted in the presence of the church and by those within the church for the flourishing of the body of Christ and the new life of the believer.
In Acts 2:37–47 it is clear those who were brought into the life of the church contribute to its flourishing. This passage also reminds us that we are to be baptized in conjunction with repentance and belief and should be baptized as soon after a profession of faith as possible.
Matthew 3:13–17; 28:19–20 · Acts 2:37–41 · Romans 6:3–4
How should a person be baptized?
The baptismal candidate should be fully immersed in the water, following the example of Christ, which represents being delivered from the wrath of God.
Done in the presence of his new community, this initiates the believer into the life of the church and serves as a public proclamation of Jesus’ saving work by His resurrection.
Acts 8:38 · Romans 6:3–4 · Colossians 2:12 · Mark 10:38–39 · Acts 2:37–47 · 1 Peter 3:21
Next steps
If you have trusted Jesus and have not been baptized, we would love to talk with you.
- Tell us you are interested through the connect form, or meet one of us at the connection table on Sunday.
- Meet with a pastor to talk about your faith and what baptism means.
- Be baptized in the presence of your church family.