The Bible gives us one clear requirement for baptism: salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. If you have placed your faith in Him, you should be baptized! If you have not yet made that decision, we would love to talk with you. If you have questions about salvation or baptism, please contact our staff at info@lebanon1st.org.
Below is an overview of what baptism is, what we believe, and how we practice it at LFA.
What Is Baptism?
Baptism is an act established by God for those who have repented of their sins and placed their faith in Jesus Christ. It is a public declaration of faith, symbolized by being immersed in water and raised up again—representing Jesus’ death and resurrection.
Baptism is an outward sign that you belong to God’s family. It represents dying to your old life of sin and being raised to walk in a new life with Christ.
Why Should I Be Baptized?
The Bible gives several reasons:
1. To follow the example of Jesus
“At that time Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river.” — Mark 1:9
Baptism does not save you—Jesus didn’t need salvation, yet He chose to be baptized. In doing so, He set the example for us. He was baptized before beginning His public ministry, and we follow that pattern at LFA - Baptism as a prerequisite for ministry.
2. Because Jesus commands it
“Go and make disciples… baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.” — Matthew 28:19
The church is called to help people know Christ, baptize them, and help them grow.
“Baptism is not an option. It’s a commandment for every believer of Jesus Christ.” — Rick Warren
3. It shows that I am a believer
“Many who heard Him believed and were baptized.” — Acts 8:12
Baptism doesn’t make you a Christian—it shows that you are one. Like a wedding ring symbolizes a marriage, baptism is a visible expression of your commitment to Christ.
Why Do We Baptize by Immersion?
There are different methods of baptism, including sprinkling, pouring, and full immersion. At LFA, we practice full immersion for these reasons:
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Jesus was baptized that way (Matthew 3:16)
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Every example in the Bible shows immersion (Acts 8:38)
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The Greek word for “baptize” means “to dip under water”
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It clearly symbolizes burial and resurrection
Who Should Be Baptized?
Every person who has believed in Jesus Christ.
“Those who believed and accepted His message were baptized.” — Acts 2:41
The only biblical requirement is a personal faith in Christ.
Because baptism is a personal decision, we do not baptize infants or very young children who are not yet able to understand its meaning. If you were baptized as a baby, that was a meaningful moment for your family—but it was not your personal decision.
Instead, we offer child dedication, where parents commit to raising their children in faith until they are ready to make their own decision to follow Jesus.
Biblical examples of dedication include:
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Hannah dedicating Samuel (1 Samuel 2:21)
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Mary and Joseph dedicating Jesus (Luke 2:22)
Baptism in the Bible is always connected to a personal decision to follow Christ and serves as a public declaration of that faith.
Common Questions
When should I be baptized?
As soon as you become a believer or recognize its importance.
Can families be baptized together?
Yes! If each person understands baptism and has placed their faith in Christ, we encourage it.
Can I be baptized more than once?
Yes, although it isn’t necessary to be baptized repeatedly.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
We hold baptisms during Sunday morning services several times throughout the year. If you haven’t been baptized yet, it would be our honor to celebrate this step with you.