What is baptism?
Baptism is an outward expression of an inward change through the act of being momentarily immersed in water and then pulled up out of the water - symbolic of Jesus' death and resurrection (Romans 6:4). Being baptized is a sign to others that you’ve decided to follow Jesus, and allows them to celebrate this decision with you (Acts 16:31-34). Baptism doesn’t result in salvation; it’s a symbol and celebration of a salvation having already taken place through one's belief in Christ Jesus and repentance of sins. 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 (Romans 8:11)!
Why should I be baptized?
When we get married, we wear a ring. Similarly, when we become Christians by believing in Jesus' death and resurrection for our sins, we get baptized. Both are symbols of a change in one's heart. Jesus instructs us to be baptized and set the example by being baptized Himself (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 1:9). Obedience to 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).
When’s the best time to be baptized?
For everyone who decides to follow Jesus, baptism is the next step. Anyone who commits his or her life to following Jesus is ready to be baptized (Acts 8:12).
Do you baptize children?
As parents, we can help point our children to Jesus, but they are the ones to 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 Thrive, we wait until children are old enough to express their own decision to follow Jesus and understand the meaning of baptism.
What is the difference between "immersing" and "sprinkling"?
Baptisms in the Bible were by immersion. The original word for baptism most often referred to being immersed or submerged in water. Jesus was baptized by being immersed in the water and rising out of it (Matthew 3:16; Mark 1:10). Submersion in the water symbolizes the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Being submersed underwater represents our death to sin and old way of life, and being raised out of the water is a picture of how Jesus raised us and gave us a fresh start in life (Romans 6:3-5).
Do I need to be baptized again?
If you haven’t been baptized by immersion since you decided to follow Jesus, 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.
