baptism.

Baptism is an exciting and vital part of the worship experience for Summit Church. Throughout the New Testament, it is clear that the salvation experience was immediately followed by baptism. At Summit Church, we baptize adults and children who have made a conscious decision to accept Jesus as Savior.

Baptism symbolizes what has taken place inwardly and is an essential way for each believer to identify with the death and triumphal resurrection of Jesus Christ. The local church has the unique responsibility to call its members to an ever-present awareness of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and this is accomplished, in part, through participating in the ordinance of baptism.

FAQ.

Why Should I Be Baptized?

We believe that baptism, the symbolic and public proclamation of what Jesus has done in your life, is an act of obedience for every Christian. When Jesus sent out his disciples, he told them to “make disciples…baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit” (Matt. 28:19). In the New Testament, we see that baptism always comes after one’s decision to follow Jesus. It is an immediate next step after salvation.

Does Baptism Save Me?

No. Baptism does not have any saving effect on an individual. Salvation only comes through placing trust in Jesus as your Savior. Baptism is a symbolic proclamation of what has already happened in the life of a Christian.

Does Summit Church Baptize Infants?

No. We believe that baptism is for those who have made a conscious decision to follow Jesus. Infants are unable to make such a decision and so we wait until they make that decision on their own. At Summit Church, we dedicate children in our services which symbolizes the parent’s and the church’s commitment to raise the child in a God-honoring environment.

Why Does Summit Church Baptize by Immersion?

Because we believe that baptism is a symbolic recognition that the believer now identifies with the death and burial of Christ, we feel that immersion is the best practice of baptism. In fact, the word “baptize” literally means to “dip under water”.

If I Have Been Baptized as a Believer, But Not by Immersion, Is My Baptism Discounted?

No. The mode of baptism is not important. What is important about baptism is what has happened in the heart of a believer. If you have made a decision to follow Jesus, and then have made a public and symbolic declaration of that decision, than we believe you have followed the Lord in obedience.