Should I Be Baptized as an Adult If I Was Baptized as an Infant?

Question from a reader:

I was sprinkled as an infant and still have my certificate. What is your understanding of baptism? Is a sprinkling at that young age as significant as full immersion? I’m puzzled.

Answer from Stephanie Anderson, EPM staff:

You ask a very good question. As I'm sure you're aware, there are many positions on baptism among sincere believers. So first and foremost, I (and Randy) would encourage you to talk to the pastor of your local church about this. (If you’re not part of a local church, we can provide recommendations for one in your area. See more information.)

I'll also share a few resources that you can check out in preparation for that conversation:

Randy shares some thoughts on baptism here, about how it's a powerful symbol of our confession of faith in Jesus.

Here is a pastoral answer to someone asking about being rebaptized as an adult (slightly different situation, with the person having been baptized as a young teen, but the principles he shares may still be helpful).

And here is a video answer from Todd Wagner, a pastor Randy knows, that has some more perspectives.

And a personal note—I was baptized as an adult after several years of wrestling with the where and when of being baptized. It was a meaningful and powerful (and joyful!) time for me, publicly confessing my faith as an adult and taking a step of obedience in front of my church body.

May the Lord give you wisdom and joy as you seek His will in this and follow Him!

Photo by Matt Hardy on Unsplash

Stephanie Anderson is the communications and graphics specialist at Eternal Perspective Ministries. 

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