Baptism FAQ

It’s completely normal to have questions about baptism!  We are here to help.  What follows are some of the most common questions about baptism we receive.  Please let us know if you have any other questions!

How should I be baptized? Why Immersion?

While some churches sprinkle, baptism by immersion was the norm for the first 1,300 years of church history. The very word “baptism” comes from the Greek word, baptizo, which means “to dip, plunge or immerse.” Sherwood Oaks believes in following this Biblical precedent today as a way of showing obedience and adhering to scripture.

Should we baptize infants?

At Sherwood Oaks, we don’t baptize infants because every baptism recorded in the Bible occurred when someone was old enough to make a personal decision regarding his or her faith in Jesus as Lord.

What if an unbaptized child dies?

Infant baptism didn’t become widely practiced until about 400 years after the beginning of the Christian Church. Sherwood Oaks doesn’t believe in the concept of original sin, but instead that those who die before they are capable of understanding their need for Jesus are covered by the grace of God and taken home to heaven for eternity.

What if a school-aged child decides to follow Christ?

We love to see children make decisions for Jesus at a young age.  Our Joining God’s Family class is a great way for you and your child to learn more about baptism and what it means to be a follower of Jesus.  for the current class offerings.

If I was baptized as an infant should I be baptized again?

Your baptism as an infant is a deeply personal part of your faith.  We know that.  And we know that you have a lot of questions about immersion and why we would ask you to be baptized “again.”  We love that your family loved you so much they had you baptized as an infant, and, if you choose to be immersed as an adult, know you are not dishonoring your heritage.  Instead, you are building upon the foundation they gave you during your infant baptism. If you have further questions about this issue, please feel free to contact the church office.

Does the water wash away my sins?

There is nothing special about the water that is used for baptism. The Bible is clear that we are saved by God’s grace through the sacrifice of Christ, not the water in which you are baptized. 

Do you have to be baptized to be a follower of Christ?

Simply put, no.  The Bible says that you become a Christian by accepting God’s free gift of grace. At the same time, baptism is just one part of the God-given instructions on receiving His free gift. According to the book of Acts, repentance followed by baptism is the occasion whereby a person receives the forgiveness of sin and the gift of the Holy Spirit.  Even Jesus, the perfect Son of God, submitted to baptism. And remember, at the very least, baptism is an act of obedience to a command of Christ.

What if I’m still not convinced?

Take some time to examine what the Bible teaches on the subject and pray about your concerns. Speak with someone from Sherwood Oaks about your questions—we would be happy to listen and offer any help and answer your questions.