Baptism

Baptism is an act of obedience to what Scripture calls all followers of Jesus to (Matthew 28:19­-20). Secondly, to follow the example that was left for us by Jesus and His followers (Acts 2:38, Matthew 3:13­17; I Peter 2:21).

People often feel they need to wait to be baptized until they become the “right kind of Christian” or a “better person.” The Gospel communicates that we could never be good enough to earn the Good News; instead, it’s a gift that’s freely offered to us that we get to receive. People sometimes see baptism as something to do before a new season or life transition. While it is God’s desire for you to seek Jesus in times of change or newness, baptism is a response to the Gospel and not necessarily a “fresh start” before life changes.

Our encouragement is for someone to get baptized as soon as they have the opportunity to do so. The heart of this encouragement is to recognize that there could be many logistical things that keeps someone from getting baptized within a week or months of their initial commitment, but the hindrance should never be an internal one based out of legalism, fear, guilt, shame, self-righteousness, or condemnation (Matthew 3:5­9; Acts 2:37­-38, 8:36­-38).

Since baptism is such an important decision, we believe this choice should be made at an appropriate age and on one’s own accord. For this reason, it is our practice to baptize those over the age of eight. We recognize there is often a genuine conversion and understanding of the Gospel of Christ for children under this age, so we thoughtfully consider each application for those under twelve years of age on a case-by-case basis. If you believe your child is ready to take this step, please contact Children’s Pastor Will Pearce at wpearce@wacc.net

Because the Gospel is something that a person must choose to put their trust in, we believe the decision to follow Christ and be baptized must be made on one’s own accord. If you were baptized as an infant but wish to be baptized again now that you have agency to make this decision for your life, we would love to encourage you to consider taking that step.

If you are ready to take this step in your discipleship journey, please register for a Sunday below. We celebrate baptisms at 9:30 and 11:00 services. Once you register, a pastor will reach out to you and walk alongside you in your preparation for that day.

You will be invited to arrive 30 minutes before the service begins. When you arrive, a pastor or staff member will be in the Auditorium Lobby to greet you and guide you through the entire experience. Please come dressed in what you are comfortable being baptized in, and bring a change of clothes and towel.

1. Baptism is not salvation. It follows the act of trusting Christ for salvation.
2. Baptism is obedience to Christ.
3. Baptism is identification with Christ.
4. Baptism is a public confession of Christ.
5. Baptism is joining a body of believers on a mission for Christ.