Throughout the history of the Christian Church, Baptism has been one of the most universally accepted practices, almost always understood as being connected with the beginning of the Christian life. It is a symbol of our being united with Christ in his death and resurrection, “Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection.” Rom 6:3, Rom 6:5, Col 2:12

“We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order 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

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation: the old has gone, the new has come!” – 2 Cor. 5:17

Baptism doesn’t make you a believer – it is a declaration that through faith, you have already been united with Christ. Baptism does not “save” you, only your faith in Christ does that. Baptism is similar to a wedding ring – it is an outward symbol of the commitment you make in your heart.

Jesus Commanded Baptism – Jesus regarded the act of baptism to be so significant that he commissioned His Church to go all over the world baptizing disciples who believe the gospel message. “Therefore go and make disciples of all the nations,” He said, “baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Matthew 28:19

Jesus Modeled Baptism – “At that time Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the Jordan.” Mark 1:9

It appears Jesus was baptized by immersion, “As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water.” Matthew 3:16 The symbol of death and resurrection fits going down into the water and coming up.

Every person who has believed in Christ. “Those who accepted His message were baptized” Acts 2:41
“Simon himself believed and was baptized” Acts 8:13
“But when they believed… they were baptized, both men and women.” Acts 8:12

At Imago Dei Community, we wait until our kids are old enough to believe and understand the true meaning of baptism. If you have a child that is expressing an interest in baptism, please contact kids@idcpdx.com.