Baptism

Baptism is an outward sign of an internal decision to accept Jesus into our hearts. When we accept Jesus, we are recognizing our need for forgiveness and grace, which was paid for with Jesus' sacrifice on the cross.

Baptism at BridgePoint is a public celebration, and can serve as an anchor point in one's journey as a believer and follower of Jesus.

About Baptism

We believe that baptism is an important step of obedience for every person who has placed their faith in Jesus as his/her Savior. The Bible shows us that baptism is everyone’s first step after believing in Jesus. We consider it a privilege to walk with you as you take this step on your faith journey.

What is the meaning of baptism?

  • Baptism illustrates Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. (1 Corinthians 15:3-4)
  • Baptism illustrates your new life as a Christian. (2 Corinthians 5:17, Romans 6:4)
  • Baptism doesn’t make you a Christian. Only your faith in Jesus does that. Baptism is like a wedding ring; it’s the outward sign of the commitment you have made in your heart. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Who should be baptized?

The Bible says that every person who believes in Jesus should be baptized. A believer is someone who has realized that their sin has separated them from God. They have given up all personal efforts to reach God through good works or religious activity.  They have concluded that Jesus’ death on the cross for their sins is the only thing that can bridge the gap between themselves and God. A believer is someone who has decided to trust in Jesus alone for salvation.  If you have come to this point in your spiritual journey, then you should be baptized.

Why should I be baptized?

  • First and foremost, it is to follow the example set by Jesus. (Mark 1:9)  
  • In addition, Jesus commanded it.(Matthew 28:19-20)
  • It demonstrates that you are a believer, a follower of Jesus. (1 John 2:3)

When should I be baptized?

As soon as you become a believer. It doesn’t have to occur the moment you believe.  However, the Bible teaches that there is no reason to delay our baptism.  After becoming a believer, you should participate in the next available opportunity the church provides.  If you wait until you feel that you are “good enough,” you will never feel ready for baptism. (Acts 2:41, 8:35-38)

Why is immersion so important?

  • It is the method used in Jesus’ baptism. Every baptism mentioned in the Bible is by immersion. (Acts 8:38-39)
  • The word “baptized” means “to dip under.”
  • Immersion best symbolizes Jesus’ burial and resurrection. (Romans 6:1-11)

Can younger children be baptized?

All instances of baptism in the New Testament occur following an individual’s decision to trust Jesus alone for salvation (see Acts 2:41, 8:12, 10:47-48). At BridgePoint, that means we wait to baptize until a child is old enough to believe and understand the true meaning of baptism.  When a child makes a decision for Jesus, then we joyously baptize them in the Christian faith after conferring with the parents.

What if I was baptized as an infant?

  • In the Bible, we see parents bring their children to Jesus.  He held them, prayed for them, and told us to welcome them.  But he did not baptize them, and he did not tell anyone else to baptize them. So if baptism signifies salvation (as the Bible teaches), only people who have intentionally received salvation should experience baptism.  Thus, the Bible would indicate that baptism is for people who have made a decision to follow Jesus. If you have not experienced a believer’s baptism, even though you have experienced baptism as an infant, the full meaning and significance of baptism has yet to take place in your life.  We strongly encourage you to be baptized as an adult believer in Jesus.

READY TO BE BAPTIZED?

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