Talking to Your Child About Baptism

Being the primary spiritual influence in our children’s lives is a big responsibility. These are the conversations we pray for, but when the opportunities come, figuring out where to start and what to say can be a little overwhelming.

Baptism is an important step in a believer’s journey of faith. As a parent, you may have questions about how to talk to your kids about baptism. This is designed to provide guidance and support as you help your children navigate this important decision.

How to talk to your child about baptism

Facilitate the conversation, but don’t dominate it. Kids are naturally curious. Commit to answering every question, no matter how silly, and let your child ask lots of questions.

• Remember, walking with Jesus is not a race.  Baptism is the first step after salvation for everyone, kids included. But it's possible your child might not be ready. And that’s OK! It's always better to wait than to pressure children to take a step they don't understand.

As parents, we often want to make things happen for our kids. Our hearts are in the right place. We want what is best for our kids. But baptism is about their faith, not ours. What we choose and they do might last for a while, but what they choose and they do will last forever.

• Explain what baptism is and its significance by using the Bible passages below and offer to answer any questions they may have along the way. This may be more than one conversation. 

• Baptism is commanded by Christ and is a demonstration of faith. (Matthew 28:19-20; Colossians 2:11-12; 1 John 2:3)

• Every time we see baptism in scripture it is always preceded by repentance and faith. (Acts 2:37-38, 41)

• There is no mention of infants being baptized in Scripture. The word of God was spoken to all who were baptized, leading us to believe the hearers understood. In fact, there is no example in the New Testament of baptism when the candidate did not request it. (Acts 2:41; 8:12; 10:47-48; 16:30-33)

• Baptism itself does not save a person. The appeal to God through Jesus evidences personal salvation. (Romans 10:9; 1 Peter 3:18-21) Baptism is a step of obedience done after salvation as a public profession of faith in Christ and identification with Him. Essentially, baptism is an outward expression of an inward decision that’s already been made.

At The Point, we distinguish infants of believers from infants of unbelievers through Baby Dedication, offered for the first 2 years of the child’s life. 

• Ask questions to prompt them to tell you what they understand. Do they understand who Jesus is? Do they understand what Jesus has done for them? Then ask them to explain their understanding of what baptism is. Are they personally and independently surrendering to follow Jesus for themselves? If so, celebrate with them and ask if they would like to be baptized. To be baptized at The Point, you can fill out a baptism profile with your child/student at thepointva.com/baptism.

• Emphasize that baptism is a celebration of their decision to follow Jesus and that it is a time to come together as a church family to support and encourage one another.

Conclusion: As parents, it is important to support and encourage your children and students as they navigate this decision. By explaining what baptism is, its significance in the Christian faith, and encouraging your children to make the decision on their own, you can help them take this important step in their faith journey.

If you or your child are ready to be baptized, please follow the link below.

Common Baptism Questions