About Baptism

If you’ve made the decision to follow Jesus—or if you’ve been following Jesus but have never been baptized—we want to help you take the next step at Cornerstone! Baptism is an outward sign of the decision to put your faith in Christ. It is a significant moment in your faith and one that we can’t wait to help you celebrate!

What is baptism and why is it important?

As one of the two sacraments instituted by Jesus, baptism is one of the most vital elements in the life of a Christian. Scripture teaches that all who put their faith in Jesus should be baptized in water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19, Acts 2:38, Romans 6:4). Baptism is important because it is a public testimony that Jesus has saved you on the basis of your faith in His finished work

Who should be baptized?

Anyone who has put their faith in Jesus. Since baptism is a public testimony of your profession of faith, baptism is only appropriate for those who have made a decision to trust in Christ alone for their salvation.

What if I was baptized as a baby?

If you’ve already been baptized as an infant, Cornerstone views that act as one of dedication on the part of your parents and the church intending that you would be raised in such a way that you would one day make the decision as an adult to be a follower of Christ. That’s why being baptized as an adult in no way rejects the baptism you received as a child—instead, it is the fulfillment of the prayers offered for you at the time of your infant dedication.

Does Cornerstone baptize babies?

As parents, we can help guide our children to Jesus, but they alone are the ones who can decide if they will follow Him (Romans 10:9).

At Cornerstone, any instance of baptism must follow a person’s decision to trust in the finished work of Jesus (Acts 10:47-48). That’s why we wait until children are old enough to express their own decision to follow Jesus and can understand the importance of baptism.

Instead, we offer Child Blessings—a ceremony by which parents of children who are ages 5 years or younger can affirm their faith and their commitment to seek God’s blessing over their child with the pastor and congregation.

Do I ever need to be baptized again?

Once you’ve made a personal decision to put your faith in Jesus and you have been baptized, there is no need to be baptized again.

What else should I know about baptism at Cornerstone?

We typically baptize two times a year. We baptize by immersion as modeled in Scripture, but we will accommodate your physical or medical needs that may prevent you from being able to be baptized by immersion. Baptism is also a fantastic opportunity to celebrate what God has done in your life with your family and friends—so you’ll want to invite them all to witness your profession of faith!