Take your next step.

In TCkids we often liken baptism to a wedding ring. If you take off a wedding ring, it doesn't mean you're no longer married. Baptism doesn't make you a Christian any more than wearing a ring makes you married. Both are symbols of a covenant that has already taken place.

Just as a ring is a sign of your commitment to another, baptism is a sign to the watching world that you have surrendered your life to Christ. It's a public profession of a private decision to follow Jesus.

First, Jesus commands it. After the resurrection, Jesus commissioned the disciples: “Go therefore 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 observe all that I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19–20). Consistently in Scripture, baptism is tied to belief (Acts 8:12–13, Acts 2:41). It's the first step of obedience after giving your life to Christ.

Second, Jesus did it. In Matthew 3:13–17, Jesus comes from Galilee to be baptized by John the Baptist. As Christians, we're baptized to follow His example.

Finally, baptism shows that we are believers. Going under the water is a picture of dying to our old way of life; being raised is a picture of the resurrection of Christ, which lets us live as new creations (Romans 6:3–4, Colossians 2:12).

Bring a change of clothes. You'll be given a special shirt to wear, and there will be a towel ready for you. Don't forget to invite friends and family to celebrate with you!

Fill out the form linked above if you're interested in baptism, or if you have a child or student who wants to be baptized. A staff member will reach out with more details.