What is baptism? Why should I get baptized? Who should be baptized? When should I get baptized? What about my child? How should I get baptized? What happens when I’m baptized? What’s the process for getting baptized at Harvest?
What is baptism? Baptism is an outward symbol of the inner transformation that took place when you gave your life to Jesus Christ through faith. It’s a picture of your salvation, and a statement or outward sign that identifies you as a follower of Jesus Christ, and no one else (Acts 10:48, Gal. 3:27).
It symbolizes:
Why should I get baptized?
There are four quick reasons to be baptized:
Baptism is not required for salvation—we are saved by grace through faith, not works (Eph. 2:8-9). But it is a part of growing in your walk with Christ, just like learning the Scriptures (Mt. 28:19-20).
Who should be baptized?
All those who profess faith in Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord should be baptized (Acts 2:37-38). In other words, all believers (Acts 10:47), and only believers.
If baptism is a symbol of your unity with Christ, your release from the grip of sin, your cleansing from sin, and your new life in Christ … then it’s meaningful only for believers.
Otherwise, you’re saying something outwardly that’s not true inwardly. That’s the precedent in the Bible (Acts 2:41, 8:12, 10:47, 18:8).
When should I get baptized?
What about my child?
For children, the timing varies from child to child based on their understanding, ability to give a credible testimony, and maturity. We think it’s best that they wait at least until 4th or 5th grade. To rush, it could give a child a false sense of security and risk diminishing its impact in their life. There’s much lifelong joy and strengthening of faith with a vivid memory of baptism.
How should I get baptized?
Since the word for baptize in the New Testament means “to dip under,” and the examples in Scripture indicate immersion (Mk. 1:10, Jn. 3:23, Acts 8:38)—we believe, when given the choice, that you should be baptized by immersion.
What happens when I’m baptized?
First, you give a brief testimony of your life before Christ, how you came to Christ, how He’s changed you. You don’t have to be a polished speaker, just overflowing with the love of God and a desire to glorify Him.
Second, you’re immersed—you’re laid back under the water in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Third, you rejoice!
What’s the process for getting baptized at Harvest?
Assuming you’ve embraced Jesus as your Savior and Lord:
If you are interested in taking the next step, click here for the Baptism Packet.