Frequently Asked Questions on Baptism

1. What does the Bible say about the manner or method of baptism?

• In the Bible, when you hear the word “baptism,” it is referring to immersion in water. The Greek word baptize means to dip, plunge, immerse under water. Baptizo is simply translated: to dip, plunge, or immerse.

2. When should someone be baptized?

• Baptism should take place when one has placed their faith in Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior.

• Baptism should take place when a believer has decided in their heart to repent of their sins and to live to please God. Baptism is not for perfect people, it is for people who need forgiveness and who desire to change.

• Baptism should take place when a believer has confessed Jesus as Lord.

• Baptism is for people who want to begin a relationship with Jesus, not for those who simply want to become members in a church.

3. Why should someone be baptized?

• Matthew 3:13-16 - Jesus was baptized and He is our example.
• Matthew 28:18-19 - Jesus commanded it and He is our Lord.
• Believer after believer was baptized in the book of Acts.
• Romans 6:4 - To “live a new life” in Christ.
• 1 Peter 3:21 - It is the appeal to God for a clear conscience.
• Galatians 3:27 - To “put on Christ.”
• Matthew 28:18-20 - It is the mark of a disciple.
• Acts 9:18 & 22:16 - The Apostle Paul was baptized.
• Acts 2:38 - For the “forgiveness of sins.”
• Acts 2:38 - To “receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

4. What is the proper setting for someone to be baptized?

The Bible provides several different settings for baptism, all of which are very appropriate and meaningful. God is well aware that we possess different personalities. It is almost as though He gave us biblical precedent for a variety of settings so our baptism would be a meaningful experience.

• A very small, personal, private intimate setting
  • Acts 8:34-38 - Only two people were present.
  • Acts 9:18 - When the Apostle Paul was baptized, it is a possibility that only he and Ananias were present.

• A small group with family members present
  • Acts 16:14-15 - Lydia and the members of her household were present.
  • Acts 16:31-33 - The Philippian jailer and all his family were present.

• A small group that includes family and friends
  • Acts 10 - The household of Cornelius and close friends were present.

• A large public gathering
  • Acts 2:36-41 - After preaching the fist Gospel message, verse 41 says, “Those who accepted His message were baptized and about 3,000 were added to their number.”