So You Want to Be Water Baptized (What You Need to Know)

Image credit: tulip.nowsprouting.com

In preparation for our FIRST BAPTISM SERVICE on August 11, here are a few FAQ's about baptism by immersion, in case you or anyone you know is considering taking this important step in your Christian walk:

*What exactly is the meaning of Baptism?

Baptism identifies you as a follower of Jesus Christ. It is an outward step of obedience for the person who has already made such a decision. It is a demonstration of what has taken place in your life: you have identified with Christ's death and resurrection. Your old self is buried with him in baptism, and you have arisen, spiritually, to new life.

*Is baptism a requirement to get into Heaven?

No; the thief on the cross went to Heaven after committing his life to Jesus (Luke 23:32-43). Obviously he wasn't baptized. Baptism does not make you a believer; it shows that you already are one!

*How do I know I'm ready to be baptized?

You have first become a follower of Christ (a Christian). Read this if you are not sure what that means. 

Your confession of faith is proven by a change in the way you live your life. This doesn't mean you are perfect, but you have taken serious steps to show you mean business with God. This includes things like no longer "living in sin"--the things you can do something about, such as sexual immorality, theft, witchcraft, cheating, etc. God wants you to live your life to the fullest! Of course there are many things we can't overcome without the power of God--things like anger, fear, destructive habits. Becoming a Christian means entering a lifelong process by which God helps us overcome these things as we seek him daily. Water baptism shows you are willing to leave those things in the grave--both the things you can change and the things you are trusting God to help you overcome.

*Is baptism merely symbolic, or does something really take place through that act of obedience? 

Even though baptism is a demonstration of your confession of faith, it can be a very powerful experience. There is something about putting action to words that can activate a spiritual breakthrough in the believer's life. 

*Why do you baptize by total immersion instead of sprinkling?

Because that is the way Jesus taught us (Matthew 3:13).  Baptism is symbolic of the spiritual burial and resurrection that takes place in the believer's life. Just as you wouldn't bury someone by sprinkling dirt on them, we don't baptize by sprinkling water on someone. Baptism is a total burial of the old life.

*Why don't you baptize babies?

Baptism is an individual, conscious decision. We believe one should be of the age of understanding to be baptized. That age should be determined by the person's parents or spiritual overseer, and will vary from person to person.

*If I was sprinkled as a baby, can I be baptized again by immersion?

By all means, yes!