What is Baptism?

Baptism is the act through which a believer publicly identifies with Jesus Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection.  It is an outward, public act which portrays an inward, personal reality of new life in Christ.  Baptism does not make you a Christian; it shows that you are one already.

Why be baptized?
1. To follow Christ’s example. (Mark 1:9)
2. To follow Christ’s command. (Matthew 28:19-20)
3. To demonstrate that you are a true believer. (Acts 18:8)

How are we to be baptized?
“As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water.” – Matthew 3:16

The word baptize literally means to immerse or dip under water. It is the best way to picture the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As we go down into the water, we are picturing Jesus’ death and burial. As we come up out of the water, we are picturing His resurrection to new life.

Who should be baptized?
“Every person who has accepted Christ as his Savior.” – Acts 2:41

When should I be baptized?
“Those who believed…were baptized…that day!” – Acts 2:41

When you make the decision to follow Jesus, baptism is the next step. Anyone who welcomes Jesus as their Lord and Savior and commits their life to following Jesus is ready to be baptized.

Baptism FAQ

On the day of your baptism, you’ll arrive 30 minutes before service to meet with a team member who will direct you to the changing room and review baptism details with you. You’ll receive a t-shirt of your size to wear for your baptism. You are free to take this home and might want to bring a plastic bag to put it in because it will be wet.

WOMEN: Please wear a bathing suit and shorts (longer length, preferably dark)
MEN: Please wear a bathing suit (longer length) or shorts (preferably dark)

We provide towels for you, however you may want to bring toiletry items such as a blow dryer, make-up, hairbrush, etc.

Kids 2nd grade and up can be baptized at Oak Pointe after understanding the Gospel and responding in faith to follow Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. If you’re talking to your child about baptism, check out our resource to guide your conversation about God’s plan for them.

Feel your child is ready to take the next step? Fill out the Baptism Application to get started today.

We believe that a profession of faith is necessary for baptism because baptism is a symbol of our faith in Jesus which unites us with his death and resurrection (Colossians 2:12). Therefore, while we dedicate and pray for our babies, we only baptize believers who can articulate their faith and declare their intention to follow Jesus as their Lord and Savior.  To find out more about our Baby Dedications click here

Oak Pointe recognizes the merit and significance of baptism regardless of location.  However, if you feel you were baptized in an unbiblical way, or were baptized before salvation, or if your story involves returning to Christ after a long period of wandering, you should talk with a member of our pastoral team about the possibility of getting baptized at Oak Pointe.

I’m Ready!

If baptism is your next step, take a few moments to fill out the form below.