Baptism
THE MEANING OF BAPTISM
Please watch the video below to learn more, then read on.
Congratulations on asking Jesus to save you and for committing your life to Jesus. Water baptism is one of the key next steps in your journey with Christ. Baptisms are held several times throughout the year during our worship services.
As you read the Bible, you will discover that people who are saved are called to be baptized with water. In Acts 2:38, the apostle Peter said, “Repent and be baptized every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.”
Some of Jesus’ final recorded words to His followers were to “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything I commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19–20). We also know that Jesus modeled for us the importance of water baptism by being baptized Himself in the Jordan River by John the Baptist (Mark 1:9–11).
The Bible clearly teaches that water baptism is important in the life of a follower of Jesus because it is God’s way for a person to go public with their decision to follow Jesus. It is a statement to family, friends, and the church that a person has pledged their allegiance to Christ and desires to live for Him.
Next Steps to be Baptized
1. Complete the Baptism Information Form by clicking the age-appropriate link below.
2. Attend the Baptism Workshop. This is a required workshop for everyone one in high school and all adults. It will help you write your testimony, prepare you to record your story via video and answer questions you may have regarding baptism. The next Baptism Workshop is scheduled for May 19, 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I be baptized?
We believe the Bible teaches that you should be baptized as soon as possible following your decision to follow Jesus. At Otterbein, baptism services are done throughout the year as people express their desire to be baptized.
Who should attend my baptism?
Because baptism is an outward expression of your faith and commitment to Jesus Christ, we believe that baptism should be done in a public setting with family, friends, and other persons from the church present. Exceptions are sometimes made for extenuating circumstances.
What happens when I am baptized?
Prior to your baptism, a video testimony will be played. During the playing of the video testimony, you will join one of the pastors in the water. Following the video, the pastor will share a word of personal encouragement with you and then you will be baptized by immersion one time. At Otterbein, we generally take a person backwards into the water when baptizing them.
What should be included in my video testimony?
We realize that the idea of recording a video may sound intimidating. To help you prepare for this, we have created a Baptism Workshop. During the workshop, you will receive guidance in writing your testimony which will become the source for your video. Generally, the video is 2-3 minutes long. On the day you record the video, we will do everything we can to make you comfortable as you tell the story of how Jesus changed your life.
How old do I need to be to be baptized?
There is no specific answer to this question and the Bible does not place any age requirement on baptism. At the same time, keep in mind that this is something a person does only once, so it is important they understand the significance of baptism and can clearly articulate a salvation experience with Christ. To help ensure that children clearly understand what it means to be baptized, all children grade 5 and under are required to complete a baptism workbook and then meet with Amanda Myers, Director of Children's Ministries. For more information or to request a baptism workbook, please contact Amanda Myers at amanda.myers@otterbeinchurch.org or 717.762.7147 x231.
Is it okay to be baptized more than once?
In general, you should be baptized only once. The exception to this may be if you were baptized prior to choosing to begin a relationship with Jesus. For example, many people were baptized as infants prior to a conscious decision to begin a relationship with Jesus. It is our belief that a person baptized as an infant should be baptized again after choosing to begin a relationship with Jesus. It may also be appropriate for a person to be baptized again if they were baptized as an adult, but before choosing to begin a relationship with Jesus Christ. People who have been previously baptized should discuss their desire with one of the pastors before being baptized a second time.
What if I am afraid of water or have a physical handicap?
If you have a fear of water or a physical handicap, contact one of the pastors to discuss your concerns. Other arrangements can be made to assist in addressing your concerns.
What do I wear?
You will be provided a T-shirt to wear on the day of your baptism. Generally, dark shorts or pants are fine. A towel will also be provided but you may bring an additional towel and a change of clothes.
Who can I talk to if I have other questions?
One of the pastors would be happy to answer additional questions. Stop by Connection Point in the church lobby on Sunday mornings or click HERE to contact the church office. You may also call 717.762.7147 to set up an appointment with a pastor.