What is baptism?
Baptism is a celebration of the commitment you have made to follow Jesus!
- It illustrates Christ’s burial and resurrection (“Christ died for our sins… He was buried… and He rose again.” – 1 Corinthians 15:3-4).
- It also illustrates new life as a Christian (“When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. The old life has passed away and a new life has begun!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17).
At the Vineyard, we encourage you to be baptized once you have made a commitment to follow Jesus. The act of baptism does not save, but is a public sign of an inward change and something to be celebrated!
Baptism FAQs
What does baptism look like?
At the Vineyard, we baptize through full immersion in water (under water).
We baptize through full immersion because every baptism in the Bible was done this way, including Jesus’ baptism:
“As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water.” – Matthew 3:16
“Then both Philip and the man went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water…” – Acts 8:38-39
Additionally, the Greek word for “baptize” means “to immerse or dip under water” and immersion best symbolizes burial and resurrection with Jesus.
Who should be baptized?
Every person who believes in Christ.
• “Those who believed and accepted His message were baptized…” -Acts 2:41
• “But when they believed Philip as he preached the Good News… and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.” -Acts 8:12
Why should I be baptized?
To follow the example set by Jesus.
• “At that time Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river.” -Mark 1:9 Because Christ commands it.
• “Jesus said, ‘Go then, to all people everywhere and make them my disciples, baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and then teach them to obey everything I have commanded you.’” -Matthew 28:19-20 It demonstrates your faith in Jesus.
• “Many of the people who heard Him believed and were baptized.” -Acts 18:8
• “We know that we have come to know Him if we obey His commands.” -1 John 2:3
When should I be baptized?
As soon as you have believed!
• “Those who believed… were baptized… that day!” -Acts 2:41
• “Then Philip began with the scripture and told him the Good News about Jesus. As they traveled along the road, they came to some water, and the man said, “Look, here is water! Why shouldn’t I be baptized right now?” Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.” The man answered, “I believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” So they went down into the water and Philip baptized him.” -Acts 8:35-38
Do you baptize children?
At the Vineyard, we wait until infants and young children are old enough to believe in Jesus on their own and understand the meaning of baptism before they are baptized. Until then, we encourage families to dedicate their babies to God and the church community, which is a very meaningful event like baptism! (See “Child Dedication” information for more details.)
Can families be baptized together?
Yes!
If each family member understands the meaning of baptism, and each one has personally placed their trust in Christ for salvation, we encourage families to be baptized together. However, it’s important to remember that baptism is a personal statement of faith, not a family tradition.
It’s usually not wise to delay your baptism while waiting on other family members to accept Christ, particularly children. This puts undue pressure on them.
Where will I be baptized?
We have a baptismal tub in the stage in the auditorium. Baptisms here usually take place during the service. We ask that you dress modestly in either set ting: dark colored shirt and shorts/pants. Don’t forget to bring a dry change of clothes, a towel, and a plastic bag for your wet clothes!
Do I have to be re-baptized?
No, you do not need to be re-baptized at the Vineyard.
The only Biblical test for a “genuine” baptism is the faith of the person being baptized. It is a covenant between Jesus and the believer, not an initiation ritual to a particular church or denomination.
When is the next baptism?
We hold baptisms every several months. The next baptism is Sunday, TBD during the service.