Summer Grove Baptist Church
FIND LIFE IN JESUS · BAPTISM

A public declaration.
A lifelong allegiance.

Baptism is an act of obedience for those who have trusted Jesus. It pictures His death and resurrection, declares that we belong to Him, and marks the beginning of a life of following Him.

WHAT BAPTISM DECLARESThe gospel made visible.
01

Jesus died
and rose.

Going beneath the water pictures Jesus’ death and burial. Rising from the water pictures His resurrection and victory over sin and death.

1 CORINTHIANS 15:3–4 · ROMANS 6:4

02

I belong
to Jesus.

Baptism is a public confession that Jesus is Lord. We identify with Christ and with His people, the church.

GALATIANS 3:27 · ACTS 2:41

03

I will walk
in new life.

Baptism is not the finish line. It is a beginning—a public commitment to follow Jesus in obedience and live on His mission.

ROMANS 6:4 · MATTHEW 28:19–20

WHY IMMERSION?Buried with Christ. Raised to walk.

The clearest picture
of the gospel.

At Summer Grove, we baptize believers by fully immersing them in water.

We practice immersion because it follows the pattern we see in the New Testament and most clearly portrays burial and resurrection. The water does not wash away sin; Jesus does. Baptism visibly tells the story of what He has done.

Jesus commanded His followers to make disciples and baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Matthew 3:16 · Matthew 28:19–20 · Acts 8:38–39 · Romans 6:3–4

WHO SHOULD BE BAPTIZED?Faith first. Baptism follows.

Those who have
trusted Jesus.

Baptism is for every person who has repented of sin and placed their faith in Jesus Christ.

If you are still exploring faith, we would love to help you understand the gospel. If you were baptized before trusting Jesus—or have questions about a previous baptism—you do not have to sort that out alone. A pastor will listen to your story and help you take a thoughtful, biblical next step.

Learn how to find life in Jesus →
WHAT TO EXPECTWe will walk with you.
01

Start a conversation

Tell us you are interested. There is no pressure and no obligation—just a chance to talk.

02

Share your story

A pastor or ministry leader will hear how you came to trust Jesus and answer your questions.

03

Prepare together

We will explain the meaning of baptism, what will happen, and everything you need to know.

04

Celebrate baptism

You will publicly declare your faith, and your church family will celebrate and commit to walk with you.

COMMON QUESTIONSIt is good to ask.

Questions are
welcome here.

Does baptism save me?+

No. Salvation is God’s gift received through repentance and faith in Jesus. Baptism is an act of obedience that publicly declares the salvation Jesus has already given.

What if I was baptized as an infant?+

We are grateful for the faith and intentions of the family who cared for you. Because the New Testament presents baptism as the response of a person who has trusted Jesus, we encourage baptism by immersion after personal faith in Christ.

What if I was baptized before I truly trusted Jesus?+

Baptism follows faith. We would be glad to hear your story and help you determine whether baptism should now be your next step.

Do I have to speak in front of everyone?+

We will help you share your story in a way that is clear and comfortable. You will know exactly what to expect before baptism day.

Can children be baptized?+

Yes, when a child has personally trusted Jesus and can clearly express that decision. We partner with parents to make sure the child understands the gospel and the meaning of baptism.

READY TO TAKE A NEXT STEP?

Let’s talk
about baptism.

You do not need to have every answer before starting the conversation. We would be honored to hear your story, answer your questions, and help you discern your next step.

Start a Baptism Conversation ↗