At Otterbein Church we believe that the only path to salvation and a personal relationship with God is through the death and resurrection of Jesus of Jesus Christ. We believe baptism is a way for those who have personally made the decision to follow Christ to go public with their faith and let others know they have committed their lives to following Him. It is an important distinction to understand that baptism is not what makes you a Christian -- it is simply our way of going public with the decision we have made to become a follower of Jesus.
Children 12 years of age and under who are interested in being baptized are required to complete a baptism workbook, demonstrating an understanding of salvation, repentance, and baptism. Additionally, each person who is interested in baptism must be able to verbally share their testimony.
How do I know if my child is ready for baptism?
Has your child made the personal decision to follow Jesus? Through the testimony of your child, is there evidence of a changed heart?
Has your child personally expressed an interest in being baptized? As baptism is a personal expression of one’s love and identification with Christ, it is expected that this is a spiritual conviction of the child, not driven by the parent.
Does your child have an understanding of the gospel and the meaning of baptism?
- Your child should be able to articulate the gospel in their own words, potentially including scripture verses for support.
- Your child should be able to verbally share their testimony with others.
- Your child understands what baptism is: a symbolic, public display of faith in Jesus.
- Your child understands what baptism is not: an action that leads to salvation, something “cool” to do, or a membership requirement.
Our experience has been that children in 3rd grade or older are the ones most ready to take this step of obedience, however there are rare exceptions to that general rule.
If our child desires to be baptized at our next baptism service, please complete this online form: Elementary Baptism Interest Form
If you have questions or would like more information, please contact Amanda Myers, Director of Children’s Ministries, at amanda.myers@otterbeinchurch.org or 717-762-7147 x231.