Baptism

Baptism is a public declaration of a personal decision to follow Jesus Christ. It does not save us—but it shows the world that we have already been saved by grace through faith.
When someone is baptized, they are identifying with the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. It is an outward expression of an inward transformation that has already taken place.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them…” — Matthew 28:19

Baptism is an act of obedience to Jesus. Throughout Scripture, those who believed in Christ were baptized as a next step in their faith journey.
Jesus Himself was baptized, setting an example for us to follow. When we choose baptism, we are saying, “I belong to Jesus, and I’m choosing to follow Him.”
Baptism is not about perfection—it’s about obedience and surrender.

Baptism powerfully illustrates what God has already done in us:

-Going under the water represents our old life being buried with Christ.
-Coming out of the water represents being raised to new life in Him.

It symbolizes forgiveness, freedom, and a fresh start.

“We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death… in order that we too may live a new life.” — Romans 6:4

This includes:
-New believers
-Those who gave their life to Christ earlier but have never been baptized
-Those baptized as infants who now want to publicly profess their own faith

Baptism follows belief. It is a personal choice and an intentional step of faith.

Baptism IS:
-A public declaration of faith
-A step of obedience
-A celebration of new life in Christ

Baptism is NOT:
-A requirement for salvation
-A way to earn God’s love
-A guarantee of a perfect life

Salvation comes by grace through faith alone. Baptism is a response to that grace.

At NewLife Church, we baptize by full immersion in water because this is the model we see in Scripture and because it best represents the meaning of baptism—death, burial, and resurrection.

The Greek word baptizo literally means “to immerse” or “to submerge.”

Baptism is a joyful and celebratory moment!

Here’s what you can expect:

-A brief explanation of baptism during service
-The opportunity to share your story (if you choose)
-Full immersion baptism
-Celebration from your church family

We’ll guide you through every step so you feel confident and comfortable.

If you have placed your faith in Jesus, you are ready to take this next step. We would be honored to celebrate baptism with you.
Baptism doesn’t mean you have it all figured out—it means you’re trusting Jesus and taking a step forward in obedience.

No. Salvation comes through grace by faith in Jesus Christ alone. Baptism does not save us—it is a response to salvation. We are baptized because we have been saved, not in order to be saved.

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith…” — Ephesians 2:8–9

You should be baptized after you have made a personal decision to follow Jesus. In the Bible, baptism always followed belief. If you have trusted Christ as your Savior, baptism is your next step of obedience.

Yes—if your child has personally placed their faith in Jesus and understands what baptism represents. We want baptism to be a meaningful decision, not something done out of pressure or tradition. Our team is happy to walk with families to help determine readiness.

If you were baptized as an infant but have since made a personal decision to follow Jesus, we encourage you to be baptized as a believer. Infant baptism is a meaningful dedication, but believer’s baptism is a personal declaration of faith.

No. Some people choose to share a brief testimony, but it is completely optional. Baptism itself is already a powerful public declaration of your faith.

We recommend wearing dark, modest clothing that you don’t mind getting wet. We’ll provide guidance ahead of time so you know exactly what to expect. Towels and changing areas will be available.

*Please bring a change of clothes that way you don't have to go home wet!

Absolutely! Baptism is a celebration, and we encourage you to invite family and friends to be part of this special moment.

That’s completely normal. Our team will walk you through every step before and during baptism so you feel comfortable and supported. You won’t be rushed or put on the spot.

Baptism doesn’t mean you’ll be perfect—it means you’re committed to following Jesus. Growth is a process, and we’re here to help you take next steps in discipleship and community.

Baptism is not about joining an organization—it’s about following Jesus. While many people choose to take additional steps toward membership and community, baptism stands on its own as an act of obedience.

Baptism is the beginning, not the finish line. After baptism, we encourage you to get connected through LifeGroups, discipleship environments like Living on Target, and serving opportunities as you continue growing in your faith.