What are the steps to get baptized?

I. Understanding the Significance of Baptism

Baptism is a foundational practice that has been observed by believers since the earliest days of the Church (cf. Acts 2:41). It represents an outward demonstration of an inward transformation and public identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. According to early Christian writings such as the Didache (an early second-century document), baptism was celebrated as a key initiation into the Christian community, echoing the teachings of Scripture.

In Scripture, baptism is consistently portrayed as an act of obedience to the command of Christ as found in the Great Commission: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). Throughout centuries of manuscript evidence, including numerous Greek manuscripts, this command has remained consistent, underscoring the importance of baptism for believers.

II. Biblical Foundations for Baptism

New Testament passages reveal that believers are urged to be baptized immediately or shortly after coming to faith. In Acts 2:38, Peter proclaims: “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins….” This pattern is repeated with the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8:36–38, who, upon understanding the gospel, eagerly asks: “Look, here is water. What is to prevent me from being baptized?”

The practice symbolizes the washing away of sin and the believer’s union with Christ. Romans 6:4 states, “We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may walk in newness of life.”

III. Step 1: Embrace Repentance and Faith

The first essential step is internal. Scripture teaches that an individual must have a repentant heart and personal faith in Christ. Repentance involves turning away from sin and toward God (Luke 24:46–47). Faith includes recognizing Christ as Lord and Savior (Romans 10:9). This internal transformation is foundational: without sincere repentance and faith, baptism becomes merely a ritual rather than a genuine act of obedience.

Anecdotal accounts from various mission fields corroborate that individuals who come to faith through evangelistic efforts, such as outreach programs inspired by biblical preaching, first experience a life-turning conviction before seeking baptism. This personal conviction aligns with the biblical precedent set by new believers in the book of Acts.

IV. Step 2: Receive Instruction from Church Leadership

Early Christian writings, such as the Apostolic Tradition, show that catechesis (formal instruction) often preceded baptism. Although not every congregation applies the same process today, a consistent biblical principle emerges: new believers benefit from learning core doctrines before undergoing baptism (Acts 2:42). The local church or recognized spiritual mentors guide new believers, explaining doctrines—especially the gospel, the nature of God, and the meaning of baptism—so that the one being baptized fully understands the significance of this act.

V. Step 3: Seek a Valid Baptismal Setting

Scripture does not mandate a specific time and spot, but it does show that baptism commonly takes place where water is available for immersion (as seen in John 3:23). In Acts 8:38, the Ethiopian eunuch and Philip went down into the water for baptism. While some Christian traditions practice other modes, immersion is frequently referenced in New Testament manuscripts and aligns with archeological findings of large baptismal pools in early congregations, such as those uncovered in church ruins dating to the first centuries.

Whether at a church building, river, or other body of water, the key aspect is the symbolic participation in the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. Historical and modern-day examples include congregations conducting baptisms in indoor pools or rivers to mirror the early Church practice.

VI. Step 4: Public Confession of Faith

Baptism is a public ordinance. The public aspect is underscored by Jesus’ own example, as His baptism in the Jordan River took place before witnesses (Matthew 3:13–17). Baptism serves as a testimony of one’s faith to fellow believers and to the broader community. This public confession can be accompanied by sharing a brief testimony of how one came to faith in Christ, acknowledging that He is Lord and declaring the desire to follow Him.

VII. Step 5: Administration of the Baptism

When the day arrives, a church leader or another mature believer authorized by the local congregation typically performs the baptism (Acts 8:36–38). The baptizer invokes the formula Jesus gave: “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). This Trinitarian invocation underscores the biblical theology that affirms one eternal God in three persons.

Immersion in water is often practiced in many conservative congregations to illustrate being submerged into the death of Christ and rising as a new creation. Romans 6:3–4 emphasizes this powerful symbolism.

VIII. Step 6: Walk in Newness of Life

Following baptism, believers are encouraged to persevere in a process of growth known as discipleship (Matthew 28:20). Traditionally, local churches foster spiritual growth through fellowship, Scripture study, prayer gatherings, and involvement in ministry. Many also note that historically, newly baptized believers often spent additional time under guidance to strengthen their understanding of core doctrines.

This step underscores that baptism is not an end but the beginning of a believer’s ongoing journey with Christ. Numerous archaeological and literary sources, spanning from the early centuries to modern missionary accounts, affirm that robust discipleship programs equip believers to remain faithful in their spiritual walk.

IX. Addressing Common Questions

1. *Must I be perfect before baptism?*

Scripture does not require perfection. Instead, it calls for genuine faith and repentance (Luke 5:32).

2. *Do I need a certain number of classes first?*

While church traditions vary, Scripture highlights understanding the gospel as more crucial than the length of preparation.

3. *What if I was baptized as an infant?*

Many believers choose to be re-baptized as a personal confession of faith, aligning with the New Testament emphasis on belief preceding baptism (Mark 16:16), though views differ in various denominations.

X. Conclusion and Encouragement

Baptism is a significant step of obedience following the example and command of Christ. Rooted in scriptural teaching, upheld by centuries of manuscript evidence, and consistently honored by devoted communities of faith, it marks an outward declaration of a transformed heart. It bears witness to the truth of the gospel: through Christ’s death and resurrection, believers receive new life and proclaim it through the waters of baptism.

Those considering baptism are encouraged to seek wise counsel, examine their faith, and move forward in this sacred act with fresh resolve. As expressed in Acts 22:16, “And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized, and wash your sins away, calling on His name.” This is the joyful invitation that has resounded from the first century onward, an invitation affirming the transforming grace of God both then and now.