Should I Get Baptized?

First Things First: Does Baptism Save You?

Let me be clear: baptism does not save you. It is not salvific in any way, shape, or form. While some churches teach that baptism is necessary for salvation, I believe the Bible teaches that the only requirement for salvation is saving faith in Jesus Christ.

That said, while baptism is not required for salvation, I do believe it is essential for sanctification—our spiritual growth and obedience to Christ.

Why Is Baptism Important, Then?

Jesus included baptism in the Great Commission:

"Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them..." – Matthew 28:19

It was also part of the first gospel sermon ever preached:

"Repent and be baptized, every one of you..." – Acts 2:38

And most significantly, Jesus Himself was baptized, even though He was sinless. He did this to lead the way for us.

I like to put it this way:

Baptism is our first "Yes, Sir!" to Jesus.
It's how we publicly say, "I love Jesus, and I'm ready to follow Him."

So while baptism doesn't save you, it's often the first act of obedience after salvation—a physical declaration of a spiritual reality.

What Baptism Means for Your Christian Life

Baptism is a key step in your walk with Christ. Yes, the thief on the cross went to heaven without being baptized, but let's be honest—if he had been taken down and given the chance, I believe he would have been baptized.

In fact, throughout the New Testament, there's no example (except for the thief on the cross) of an unbaptized believer. Every follower of Jesus in the early church was baptized and became part of a local community of believers.

In many places, baptism is a joyful celebration with friends and family. But in some parts of the world, like certain Muslim countries, baptism is a dangerous public declaration that can lead to persecution, loss of family, or even death.

That's how serious and meaningful baptism is—it publicly declares your allegiance to Jesus Christ.

💬 Common Questions About Baptism

1. I'm a new believer. Should I be baptized?

Yes. According to Scripture, baptism should happen after your conversion.

When you put your faith in Jesus Christ, that moment is called your conversion, or being born again (see John 3). In Acts 8, when Philip shared the gospel with the Ethiopian eunuch, the man believed, saw some water, and asked,

"Look, here is water. What prevents me from being baptized?"

He was baptized immediately.

2. I was baptized before, but now I'm fully committing my life to Jesus. Should I be re-baptized?

That's between you and the Holy Spirit.

Many believers feel led to be re-baptized as a way of publicly recommitting their lives to Christ. While the Bible doesn't command or forbid re-baptism, I always encourage believers to follow God's leading.

If it would be meaningful for your walk with Christ, I'd be honored to baptize you again. If not, I'll respect your decision.

3. I was baptized as a baby, but I've since come to faith in Christ. Should I be baptized again?

Yes. Infant baptism is practiced in some traditions, such as Catholicism and certain Reformed churches, for different theological reasons—like washing away original sin or symbolizing covenant.

However, in every New Testament example, baptism follows personal faith in Christ. Babies cannot choose to turn from sin and trust in Jesus. That's why we believe in believer's baptism—baptism for those who have made a conscious decision to follow Jesus.

4. I'm not sure if I really believe in Jesus, but my (parent, pastor, friend) is encouraging me to be baptized. What should I do?

Don't get baptized yet.

If you're not sure what you believe about Jesus or the gospel, please wait. Baptism should never be done out of pressure or obligation. It should be a sincere response of faith.

Take time to explore what it means to follow Christ. When you know you've put your faith in Him and been born again, then baptism will be a powerful and personal expression of your commitment.

Final Thoughts

I hope this helps clarify your questions about baptism. It's a significant step in your relationship with Jesus—not because it saves you, but because it boldly declares to the world that you belong to Him.

If you'd like to talk more about baptism, feel free to email me at jeremiahdollgener@gmail.com. I'd be honored to walk alongside you as you take this next step in your faith.