Baptism: A Guide for the Church

Baptism is an ordinance of the church. Moments before Jesus ascended to His Father in Matthew 28, He commanded that all who follow Him be baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We call baptism an ordinance of the church because Christ ordained that it be performed. The Scripture is clear that this ordinance, or command, involves the immersion of believers in water.

The English word “baptize” is a transliteration of the Greek word "baptizo," which literally means to immerse.

Therefore, we do not practice sprinkling or pouring, but practice the biblical mode of immersion in water. Furthermore, the New Testament pattern and symbolism indicates that baptism is reserved for those who have placed their faith in Christ. Therefore, we do not baptize infants but only those who have made a credible profession of faith in Christ. The Scripture is also clear that this ordinance, or command, is an act of obedience, symbolizing the believer’s faith in Christ, death to sin, and new life in Christ.

Baptism is not necessary for salvation but is essential for obedience to Christ’s command.

Furthermore, baptism is a symbol or picture of the gospel. Romans 6 demonstrates that immersion in water depicts Christ’s death and burial and that being raised out of the water depicts Christ’s resurrection from the dead. Therefore, all who place their faith in Christ ought to publicly declare their new life in Christ through the act of baptism. In doing so, they are declaring themselves to be a member of the church and thus are committing themselves to the local church. Furthermore, in doing so, they are declaring their resolve to follow Christ all the days of their life and are inviting the accountability and encouragement of their local church.

A Guide for Parents

How do I know if my child is ready?

The decision to allow your child to be baptized should not be taken lightly. Many children are prematurely baptized, later confessing that they did not understand what they were doing. Since baptism is reserved for those who have placed their faith in Christ, the following questions can help you discern if your child is ready to be baptized:

1. Does my child understand the gospel?
   Does my child understand that he was made to worship a holy God? Does he understand that he has not done this, but has sinned and deserves eternal separation from God? Does he understand that Jesus died and rose again, taking the punishment he deserved for sin? Does my child understand that God offers salvation to those who turn from their sin and believe in Jesus? Does my child understand that salvation is a free gift that cannot be earned?
   
   
2. Does my child demonstrate a genuine walk with Christ?
   Can you discern a changed heart in your child? Does your child demonstrate a desire to know and honor Christ? Is your child convicted by his sin? Does your child see his need for Jesus? Is there evidence that your child is growing in Christ? Is the Gospel mere facts or a life-changing message that has changed who your child is?
   
   
3. Does my child understand what baptism symbolizes?
   Does your child understand that baptism does not save him? Does he understand that baptism is an act of obedience symbolizing his death to sin and new life in Christ? Does your child understand that baptism is a public testimony that he will follow Jesus Christ and resolve to do so all the days of his life? How can I prepare my child to one day be baptized? As a parent, God has called you to be the primary disciple-maker in your child’s life.

You can help prepare your child for baptism by:

1. Discussing it.
   Talk about baptism together. Use this guide as a resource. Share your testimony and explain how God has worked in your life.
   
   
2. Meeting with a minister.
   Schedule a meeting with one of the pastors to discuss baptism. Ask for help in discerning where your child is spiritually.
    

Adapted from Article VII of The Baptist Faith and Message, 2000.