What is the meaning of baptism?

It illustrates Christ's burial and resurrection.

"Chris died for our sins... He was buried... and He rose again" - 1 Corinthians 15:3-4

"For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ." - Colossians 2:12

It illustrates my new life as a Christian.

Baptism doesn't make you a believer - it shows that you already believe.  Baptism does not "save" you, only your faith in Christ does that.  Baptism is like a wedding ring - it's the outward symbol of the commitment you make in your heart.

"When someone becomes a Christian he becomes a brand knew person inside.  The old life has passed away and a new life has begun!" - 2 Corinthians 5:17

"By our baptism, we were buried with Him and shared His death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead...so we also may live a new life!" - Romans 6:4

"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?

Because Jesus was baptized that way.

"As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water." - Matthew 3:16

Every baptism in the Bible was by immersion.

(Example) "...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

The word Baptize means "To dip under water"

It is the best symbol of a burial and a resurrection!

Who should be baptized? 

It illustrates Christ's burial and resurrection.

"Those who believe and accepted His message were baptized..." - Acts 2:41

"Simon himself believed and  was bapized..." - 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

At LifePoint, we wait until our children are old enough to believe and understand the true meaning of baptism before we baptize them.

Some churches practice a "baptism of confirmation" for children.  This ceremony is intended to be a covenant between the parents and God on the behalf of the child.  The parents promise to raise their child in the faith until the child is old enough to make his own personal confession of Christ.  This custom began about 300 years after the Bible was completed.

This is different from the baptism talked about in the Bible which was only for those old enough to believe.  The purpose is to publically confess your personal commitment to Christ. 

When should I be baptized?

As soon as you have believed.

"Those who believed..were baptized...that day!" - Acts 2:41

"Then Philip began with the scripture and told him the Good News about Jesus.  As they traveled along the road, they came to some water, and the man said, 'Look, here is water!  Why shouldn't I be baptized right now?'  Phillip said,'If you believe with all your heart, you may'  The man answered, 'I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.'  So they went down into the water and Phillip baptized him."  - Acts 8:35-38

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 wait until you are "perfect, " you'll never feel "good enough"!

Can my family and friends be baptized together?

Yes!  If each person understands fully the meaning of baptism, and each one has personally placed his/her trust in Christ for salvation, we encourage families to be baptized at the same time.  It is wonderful expression of commitment.

However, it is important to remember that baptism is a personal statement of faith, not a family or group tradition.  It is usually not wise to delay your baptism while waiting on others to join you. This puts an undue pressure on them, and delays your obedience.

What should I wear when I am baptized?

Women should wear shorts and a dark-colored top or a swimsuit.  Men may wear shorts, t-shirts or a swimsuit.  Bring a change of clothes, a towel and a plastic bag for your wet clothes.

Will I have anything to say?

At the beginning of the service, one of the pastors will briefly explain the meaning of baptism.  Depending on the location (it could be a beach, swimming pool, or our indoor baptism tank), you will either be waiting in the water or, to the side for your turn.  The Pastor will introduce you, briefly lower you just under the water, then you may dry off and watch the others.  Later you will receive a baptism certificate.  We encourage you to invite all your relatives and friends to attend your baptism.

What do I do if I want to be baptized at The LifePoint?

Email Pastor Matt immediately at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or call the church office at 631.427.0099