All About Baptism
Baptism is a visible symbol of the internal change that takes place in the life of one who trusts in Jesus for salvation.
Baptism should be done after a person has trusted in Jesus for the forgiveness of his or her sins. Jesus tells us to make disciples and baptize; we believe He meant it to be done in that order. That’s also the pattern seen in the Bible in places like Acts 8:38.
To be sure that the person being baptized fully understands his or her decision, we typically don’t baptize children under the age of 7. If you were baptized as an infant, or at any time before you trusted in Jesus for the forgiveness of your sins, we encourage you to be baptized again.
1. What is baptism?
Baptism is an outward expression of an inward change. It’s a public celebration of the miracle of moving from death to life, through faith in Jesus Christ. Throughout the New Testament, we see people come to belief in Jesus and his resurrection followed by baptism. (Acts 16:31-34) Baptism doesn’t save a person; it’s a symbol and celebration of salvation.
2. Why should I be baptized?
Jesus set the example for us by being baptized and instructs us to baptize all those who come to faith in Him. (Matthew 28:19-20, Mark 1:9)
Deciding to obey Jesus shows we believe and follow Him. (1 John 2:3) Because Jesus went public about His love for us, we can go public about our love for Him. Being baptized shows that we turn away from a life of sin toward Jesus, the only one who can change us. (Acts 2:38-41)
3. Do you baptize children?
As parents, we can help point our children to Jesus, but they are the ones who must decide if they will commit their lives to Him. (Romans 10:9)
Any instance of baptism follows a person’s decision to trust Jesus for his or her salvation and commitment to follow Him. (Acts 10:47-48) At West Bridge, we encourage children to wait till they are old enough to express their own decision to follow Jesus and understand the meaning of baptism.
4. I’ve been baptized before, do I need to do it again?
Every baptism in the New Testament is by immersion (to be dipped under the water). It symbolizes the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus (1 Cor. 15:3-4). If you haven’t been baptized by immersion since deciding to follow Jesus we’d love to help you take your next step. Once you’ve taken that step there’s no need to be baptized again.
5. When should I be baptized?
If you’ve decided to follow Jesus, then baptism is your next step. We’d love to help as you discover the joy of being fully devoted to Jesus. To sign up for your baptism click here.
*adapted from article by John Weirick
What are the steps toward baptism?
To best come alongside our kids, we have a 3-step plan for those interested in getting baptized:
Step 1: Watch the 2 part video below. (This includes 2 short videos and a discussion guide to follow along.)
Step 2: Fill out the baptism form after watching the videos.
Step 3: Meet with a pastor or staff member so you can share your story.
Then you are ready to schedule your baptism!
What are the steps toward baptism?
To best come alongside our students, we have a 3-step plan for those interested in getting baptized:
Step 1: Watch the 2 part video below. (This includes 2 short videos and a discussion guide to follow along.)
Step 2: Fill out the baptism form after watching the videos.
Step 3: Meet with a pastor or staff member so you can share your story.
Then you are ready to schedule your baptism!
Have questions? Please email us at .