Baptism FAQ

What is baptism?

We believe baptism is a gift from God. The Bible teaches we are changed by God’s grace through the act of baptism. Thus, baptism demonstrates God’s actions, not only ours.

We also believe that Baptism is an outward expression of an inward change. It’s can be a public declaration of how Jesus changed your life. Being baptized shows others that you’ve decided to follow Jesus, and allows them to celebrate this decision with you (Acts 16:31-34).

Baptism doesn’t save a person; it’s a symbol and celebration of salvation (1 Peter 3:21). The power that brought Jesus back to life is the same power Jesus uses to change our lives – and that’s worth getting excited about!

How is baptism administered?

We believe modes of sprinkling, pouring, and immersion are valid so long as water is used and that a person is baptized “in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit” as Christ commanded. (Matthew 28:19)

Doesn’t the Bible teach total immersion?

We recognize there are Christians who understand the Bible to teach baptism by immersion only. However, we believe the Bible does not insist on only one “correct” mode. The word “baptism” is from the Greek "bapto" (and its derivatives) and it means “to dip” or to “make wet,” not specifying total “immersion” or “submersion” under water.

Why baptize infants?

Some who reject the baptism of infants point out that the Bible does not specifically command that infants should be baptized. However, in no place does the Bible exclude infants and children from baptism. If we were to apply the same standard to Holy Communion, then women would be forbidden to receive Holy Communion as nowhere in scripture is a woman specifically mentioned as receiving communion. Yet we assume that women were partakers of communion. In the same way, there are plenty of scriptural reasons to believe that infants and children were included in baptism.

What about baptizing adults?

A person who would follow Christ must be baptized, following the command of scripture (Acts 2:38), and an adult who has not received baptism should not delay to receive the gift of God. It would be at that time that the adult would also publicly profess his or her faith in Christ.

Do I need to be baptized again?

If you haven’t been baptized, we want to help you take your next step of being baptized. Once you’ve taken that step, there’s no need to be baptized again. God never asks us to take a next step that isn’t good for us. He always gives us more than we deserve or can imagine, including the joy we receive from listening to Him and doing what He says.

How do I present my child or myself for baptism?

Simply notify a pastor of your intent. To present a child for baptism, the parent must be a professing member of the church, as the parent(s) must take a vow to raise the child in the church until the child can accept God’s covenant for him or herself.

Can I reaffirm my baptism?

Absolutely. People who desire to reaffirm their baptism publicly should notify a pastor of your intent.