Frequently Asked Questions about Baptism

What Is the Meaning of Baptism?

Baptism is a public ceremony where one publicly identifies with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, signifying a believer's new life in Christ. It is a public symbol of a personal relationship with the Lord.

Because there is confusion about baptism, it is important to recognize that baptism doesn't make you a believer—it shows that you have already believed. Baptism does not "save" you, nor is it the final step in your salvation—salvation requires only faith in the completed work of Christ on the cross.

Here’s a word picture that explains it well. Baptism is like a wedding ring. Just like a wedding ring, it is a visible outward symbol of a commitment in your heart. Baptism represents identifying yourself with the most important relationship in your life: the one you have with Lord Jesus Christ.

Here’s what the Bible says:

• "Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. He was buried, and He was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said." 1 Corinthians 15:3–4
• "For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized. And with Him you were raised to new life because you trusted the mighty power of God, who raised Christ from the dead." Colossians 2:12
• "When someone becomes a Christian he becomes a brand new person inside. The old life has passed away and a new life has begun!" 2 Corinthians 5:17
• "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith. It is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast." Ephesians 2:8–9

Why Be Baptized by Immersion?

Baptism in the Bible was by immersion. The word "baptize" means "to dip under water." The Greek word baptizo means "to immerse or dip/dunk under water." According to Romans 6:4, baptism clearly symbolizes Christ's death, burial, and resurrection.

• "Then both Philip and the man went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water..." Acts 8:38–39
• "As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water." Matthew 3:16

When Should I Be Baptized?

Baptism is very meaningful, and while every Christ follower should get baptized, a thorough understanding and embracing of Jesus as both savior and lord is necessary.

Baptism is not something you have to wait for—it represents you wanting to completely and fully identify with Jesus and His church. It is something you can do as soon as you become a believer, as it represents your changed life and what Christ has done in you.

Once you have been saved, there is no reason to delay. As soon as you have decided to receive Christ into your life, you can–and should–be baptized. If you try to wait until you are "perfect," you’ll never feel "good enough." And even if you've been a follower of Christ for some time, it's never too late to identify with Christ in baptism.

• "Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added to the church that day..." Acts 2:41

Whom Does Journey Church Baptize?

Every person who believes in Christ, who has made Him lord and savior.

• "Those who believed and accepted His message were baptized..." Acts 2:41
• "Simon himself believed and was baptized..." Acts 8:13
• "But when they believed Philip as he preached the Good News...and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women." Acts 8:12

What Will Happen at My Baptism?

You will enter the baptism pool during one of our Sunday morning experiences, and the person who is baptizing will ask you if you have asked Jesus Christ to be your savior and lord. After you answer that you have done this, we will baptize you by dipping you just under the surface and raising you back up again. Then you can leave the water, dry off, and watch the others. We also take photographs and post them to our Facebook page for you to download a photo of this great moment.

Can My Family Be Baptized Together?

Yes! If each person understands fully the meaning of baptism as following Jesus, and each one has personally placed his/her trust in Christ, we love baptizing families at the same time. It is a great way to move forward together spiritually.

• “They replied, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household.’ And they shared the word of the Lord with him and with all who lived in his household. Even at that hour of the night, the jailer cared for them and washed their wounds. Then he and everyone in his household were immediately baptized.” Acts 16:31–33

Whom Should I Invite to My Baptism?

We encourage everyone to invite their family and friends to their baptism! Those from out of town will most likely be able to watch the service online.

What Should I Wear When I Am Baptized?

We recommend wearing clothes that will not retain much water, such as long swim trunks, dark shorts, or yoga pants. We will give you a baptism t-shirt to wear and provide a towel for each person. Also, make sure to bring a change of clothes and a plastic bag for wet clothing. Our bathrooms will be available for changing clothes after baptism.

Is There a Minimum Age for Baptism?

No, there is no minimum age. At Journey Church, we believe children who are mature enough can make the decision to believe in Jesus as savior and understand the true meaning of baptism. When this happens, we will baptize and celebrate a child's faith steps. For more info on the ways we celebrate the faith of children, contact your child's leader or pastor.