I was baptized as a baby. Should I get baptized again?
While we hold to believer’s baptism, we do so in a way that doesn’t judge other people, churches, or denominations that believe otherwise. Simply put, this is our conviction according to what we believe the Bible teaches on baptism.
The purpose of baptism is to publicly identify a new believer in Jesus Christ. The question may be asked, “Why are so many people baptized as babies?” In the Bible, we find parents bringing their children to Jesus. He held them, prayed for them, and told his disciples to welcome them, but he did not baptize them, and he did not tell anyone else to baptize them. Baptism is appropriate only for those who have made a personal decision to trust Christ alone for their salvation.
If you were baptized as a child, it was no doubt the intent of your parents that you would one day be a follower of Christ. Your baptism as an adult can be viewed as the fulfillment of you parents’ wishes. It in no way repudiates the baptism you received as a child.
How old do you have to be to get baptized?
Because the symbolism of Baptism requires an adult level of cognitive and developmental readiness, the leadership of Elevation Church believe that ultimately, this decision should be made by a child's parents. Proverbs 20:25 issues a significant caution against the danger of making a vow before adequate knowledge, forethought, and reflection have been given. In an effort to prevent young people from making a premature commitment they may not fully understand, this minimum age has been established.
Why do you believe in baptism by immersion?
In Romans 6:1-11, the Apostle Paul explains how the immersion mode of baptism identifies the believer with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Going under water symbolizes Christ’s death. Coming out of the water illustrates his resurrection. Because of this, we hold to baptism by immersion but will sprinkle those with physical disabilities or those who have a psychological reason for not being immersed. It is important to understand that the value of the sacrament of baptism is in the life and heart of the believer, not in the amount of water used.
Who will baptize me?
Typically, Matt Miller (Lead Pastor) will do the baptizing. However, if there is someone in your life who has already been baptized that you would like to be baptized by, that is perfectly fine.
Will you baptize my infant?
The New Testament records the baptisms of adults who are believers but never of children. Baptism can’t give a person anything, spiritually speaking. It can only signify something that has already happened. Therefore, Elevation Church will only baptize people who profess to follow Christ. We do, however, encourage Christian parents to present their children for the ceremony of dedication, whereby God’s blessing is formally invoked upon the children. The parents, family, and church body are given the opportunity to publicly commit themselves to raise the children in accordance with the teachings of Scripture.
If you have any questions about Baby Dedications, please email us at info@elevation.cc.
What should I wear to be baptized?
People are invited to wear shorts and a t-shirt that will be provided to everyone participating in baptism by Elevation Church.
What is “believer’s baptism”?
The New Testament records the baptisms of adults who are believers, but never of infants. Baptism can’t give a person anything, spiritually speaking. It can only signify something that has already happened. Therefore, at Elevation Church, we only baptize people who profess to be followers of Christ. This is a public declaration of someone who has already trusted in Christ as their Lord and Savior.
How do I sign up to be baptized?
To sign up: Visit elevation.cc/baptism or use sign up at the information table in the Church lobby. Upon submission, a member of the Elevation Church Staff will reach out to you within 24 hours to acknowledge and celebrate your decision. They will also give you the necessary details about your baptism.
How do I know if baptism is for me?
If you have come to a point in your life where you have decided to follow Christ in everything you do, whether 15 minutes ago, a week ago, or 20 years ago, baptism is the next step of obedience for you to take. Going public with your faith through baptism is a powerful, biblical response to your faith in Jesus.