Zambia Hunt

Who Should Be Baptized?

Every believer who has placed their faith in Jesus Christ for salvation should be baptized. One example of an individual’s baptism in the Bible is the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8:26-39. When the eunuch asked, “What prevents me from being baptized?” Philip answered, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.” The eunuch responded, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” (See Acts 2:38).

What Are the Requirements for Baptism?

The requirement for baptism is that a person has been saved—that you have placed complete trust in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Consider the requirements for salvation found in Romans 10:9-10. If you have responded to Christ in this way, you meet the requirement for baptism.

The local church is the authority responsible to baptize a believer in Christ. This baptism identifies the believer with Christ and incorporates the believer into membership in the local church.

Does the Bible Show Examples of Baptizing Infants or Non-Christians?

There are no cases in the Bible of anyone being baptized except believers. The Bible never shows infants or children being christened or baptized.

When Should Someone Be Baptized?

Believers should be baptized as soon as possible after their salvation (Acts 8:12, Acts 18:8).

What Is the Biblical Method of Baptism?

The word “baptism” comes from the Greek word baptizo, which means “to immerse in water.” All biblical examples and commands relating to baptism speak of immersion (Acts 8:26-39, Matthew 3:16).

Why Do You Baptize by Placing Someone Under the Water?

Baptism is a picture of the death, burial, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. Just as burial means placing someone completely underground, the biblical method of baptism is complete immersion in water (Romans 6:1-6).

How Important Is Baptism?

Baptism is very important—not for salvation, but for obedience. Baptism is not essential for salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9). However, baptism is essential for obedience, service, and spiritual growth (Matthew 28:19-20). When a person refuses to obey the Lord in baptism, they demonstrate unwillingness to obey Him in other areas as well (Matthew 3:13-15).