Baptism

Next Step: Baptism

We are excited about your interest in baptism! This resource is designed to help you understand the biblical foundation of baptism and answer any questions you may have as you prepare for this next step in your faith journey.

The information below is broken into three parts: the Meaning of baptism, the Results of baptism in your life, and the connection between Salvation and the Holy Spirit.

Baptism is Immersion

The word “baptize” literally means “to dip under water.” The Greek word baptizo means “to immerse under water.”

For example, in Acts 8:38, Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch “went down into the water,” showing immersion as the method.ACTS 8:38
In Romans 6:4, the apostle Paul wrote: “We were therefore buried with him [Jesus] through baptism into death so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”ROMANS 6:4

Sacrament, Not Just a Symbol

A symbol points to something else. A sacrament has an impact on both the physical and spiritual realms. God acts in and through it. In baptism, God is at work in us.

“For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.”GALATIANS 3:27; EPHESIANS 4:5

An Act of Faith

Baptism is a faith response to Jesus’s command. Faith leads to obedience.

“...and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God.”1 PETER 3:21
“Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved...”MARK 16:16

The Culmination of Conversion

The New Testament consistently connects hearing, believing, repenting, confessing, and baptism. Every conversion example in Acts (Chapters 2, 8, 9, 10, 16, 22) includes immediate baptism.

• HEARING
• BELIEVING
• REPENTING
• CONFESSING
→ BAPTISM

Baptism unites us with Jesus’s death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4; Colossians 2:12). Jesus said we must be “born of water and the Spirit” (John 3:5).

Discipleship

Jesus commanded His followers to “make disciples, baptizing them” (Matthew 28:19). Baptism is how we “put on Christ” (Galatians 3:27) and enter a new covenant (Colossians 2:11-12). Baptism marks the start of discipleship.

Forgiveness

In Acts 2:38, Peter teaches: “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”ACTS 2:38

Baptism brings forgiveness and the Holy Spirit.

Community

Baptism identifies us with Jesus and His people. Baptism relieves guilt (through God’s forgiveness) and relieves shame (through community). Baptism builds community.

The Spirit seals believers.

“And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit.”EPHESIANS 1:13

Belief and baptism go together.

“But when they believed Philip as he proclaimed the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.”ACTS 8:12
“...having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead.”COLOSSIANS 2:12

Born of water and Spirit.

Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.”JOHN 3:5

Everyone who has believed in Jesus as Savior and Lord.

“Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.”ACTS 2:41

Belief in Christ is required. We do not baptize infants; children must be old enough to understand and believe.

Immediately after believing (Acts 2:41; Acts 8:36-39). There’s no reason to delay.

Just as Jesus was baptized by being immersed in water.

“As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened...”MATTHEW 3:16

You may share if you would like. The person baptizing you will introduce you and explain the meaning of baptism.

You will be asked if you believe that “Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God, and you have accepted Him as your Savior and Lord.”

Historically, the idea that baptism is not part of conversion is new. The New Testament pattern is clear: belief and baptism belong together.

If you were not baptized by immersion after believing in Christ, yes. Baptism affirms your faith in the way Jesus practiced.

Yes, if each member understands the meaning and has personally trusted Christ.

We encourage baptism by immersion after personal belief, following the biblical model.

Still have questions? We want to help! Whether you're unsure about the process or just want to talk through your decision, our team is available to chat this Sunday at Guest Services. You can also reach out to us via the contact info below to request a conversation.

I'm Ready to be Baptized

Please complete one of the following:

  • Click the BAPTISM link below to complete the brief online form.
  • Call the office at (970) 243-6672 or email office@northeastchristian.org.
  • Stop by Guest Services this Sunday and let the host know you're interested.
Go to Baptism Form

NE! Kids (2nd–4th Grade)

Children should understand the meaning of baptism and complete the Baptism Booklet before their ceremony.

Once the booklet is finished, children will meet with a pastor to discuss their decision before scheduling.

Download Baptism Booklet
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