If you’ve been around church—or even just heard people talk about following Jesus—you’ve probably heard of “baptism.” But just because you’ve heard about baptism doesn’t mean you know what it is, why we do it, and if it’s something that really matters.
These are all good questions, and you’re not alone in asking them!
Baptism isn’t just a tradition or a box to check. It’s a meaningful step Jesus invites us to take as we follow him. It’s a way to express on the outside what’s happening on the inside: a public declaration of a personal decision to trust Jesus.
The Meaning of Baptism
Baptism is defined as an “act, experience, or ordeal by which one is purified, sanctified, initiated, or named.” It’s a Christian practice that symbolizes faith, purification, renewal, and commitment to Jesus. Here’s what the Bible shows us about baptism:
Baptism Is Symbolic
Baptism is an outward demonstration of an inward faith. It doesn’t “save” us or earn our salvation—it’s a response to the salvation we’ve already received through Jesus.
The Apostle Paul wrote, “Or have you forgotten that when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined him in his death? For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.” (Romans 6:3-4)
In other words, baptism signifies our old life being washed away and our new life beginning in Christ.
"What are you waiting for? Get up and be baptized. Have your sins washed away by calling on the name of the Lord." Acts 22:16
Baptism Is an Act of Obedience
“Peter replied, 'Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'” Acts 2:38
Much of Jesus’ life on earth gives us an example to follow—things like loving our neighbors and treating others the way we want to be treated. Baptism is another example he gave us.
Jesus didn’t need to be baptized, but he chose to be. He invites us to do the same—out of love, trust, and obedience to him. Baptism is a natural step when we decide to follow him.
Baptism Is Public
Baptism isn’t meant to be private. It’s a public statement of faith—a way to let others know that we have decided to trust Jesus.
Before being baptized, people often share about the impact their relationship with Jesus has had on their life and why they’ve decided to follow him. It’s a powerful way to “preach the good news to everyone” (Mark 16:15) simply by sharing what God has done.
Personal stories can make a big impact! They resonate with others, inspiring them to pursue a relationship with Jesus for themselves. It’s a powerful way to introduce others to Jesus!
Baptism Is Personal
Baptism is meant to be a personal step of obedience for anyone who has chosen to put their faith in Jesus. There’s no one too young, too old, or too far gone to make the decision to go all-in with their faith through baptism!
But what if the decision was already made for you? Some churches practice infant baptism, where parents choose to baptize their child, often before they’re old enough to have a personal understanding of what it means to follow Jesus.
What God wants most is a personal relationship with us. So even if you were baptized as an infant, you can still choose to get baptized as an expression of your own faith and commitment to Jesus!
How Is Baptism Performed?
Every church does baptism a little differently, but here’s what you can expect at LCBC:
- Before being baptized, you’ll attend a preparation class to walk through your decision and help you prepare for the logistics.
- We’ll help you write out your story of life change—your testimony—which will be read aloud so everyone can hear the work God has done in your life.
- You’ll be submerged in a small pool of water, symbolizing your old life being washed away and rising as a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Why Do We Get Dunked Under Water?
Baptism is typically done through immersion in water, following the example of Jesus. Matthew wrote, “After his baptism, as Jesus came up out of the water, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and settling on him” (Matthew 3:16).
That said, being fully submerged isn’t the only way. Some people are partially immersed or have water poured or sprinkled on them. The “how” matters less than the “why” and the “what” of baptism.
Do You Have to Be Baptized to Go to Heaven?
The short answer is no. All it takes is trusting Jesus as your Savior and receiving the gift of forgiveness to go to Heaven.
“God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.” Ephesians 2:8-9
While baptism is important, it’s not what saves us. It’s a result of salvation, not a requirement for it. It’s a step of obedience for those who have already chosen to follow Jesus.
Is Baptism Your Next Step?
Baptism is a meaningful and powerful way to publicly share your decision to follow Jesus. It’s a symbol of starting a new life in Christ, and it’s a way to share how that decision is already impacting you personally.
If you’ve trusted Jesus as your Savior and you’re ready to share your faith publicly, we’d love to talk to you!
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There’s rich symbolism and deep meaning in the tradition of baptism – let's explore what the Bible has to say about it!
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LCBC stands for Lives Changed By Christ. We are one church in multiple locations across Pennsylvania. Find the location closest to you or join us for Church Online. We can’t wait to connect with you!