Getting Baptised
What is baptism?
For over two thousand years believers in Jesus across centuries, cultures and continents have testified publicly to their faith through the simple practice of baptism by full immersion.
It is a moment where someone declares once and for all their wholehearted commitment to follow Jesus as Lord and Saviour.
One of the first actions of Jesus’ adult life was to be baptised by His cousin John. It was an expression of solidarity with humanity as he set out on a life and ministry that would culminate in His self-sacrificing death on the cross and His resurrection from death. John was initially reluctant, but Jesus insisted He needed to be baptised just like everyone else.
Wondering whether you should get baptised?
Do you believe that Jesus died for your sins and have you accepted him as your saviour? If so, we encourage you to be baptised.
The baptism itself may only take a few minutes during one of our services and can be performed by someone you choose. This person might share a brief encouragement with you, a short prayer or Bible verse, and then ask you two simple questions.
- Do you believe that Jesus died for your sins and have you accepted him as your saviour?
- Is it your wish that I baptise you now in front of your family, friends and church family?
We love to celebrate every single person who makes this important decision, but there is no obligation for you to speak in public. The baptistry on our stage is purpose-built and heated, and we also have facilities backstage for you to get dried and dressed in afterwards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I consider being baptised?
Baptism is an ‘external symbol of an internal decision’ – something that Jesus did himself, and asked his followers to do as well. Baptism is sort of like a wedding ring – the symbol doesn’t determine the decision, but it tells everyone else about it!
When in my journey should I get baptised?
Followers of Jesus are traditionally encouraged to be baptised as soon as possible after making a decision to follow Him and surrender their lives to Him – however, it’s never too late!
Is the water cold?
The water in the Door of Hope baptistry is nice and warm – just like a bath!
What should I wear?
Appropriate, modest clothing is recommended – avoid white tops that can go transparent for instance. As a rule, what you wear shouldn’t distract from the significance of the occasion.
Can I choose who baptises me?
Yes. The only condition of people who can baptise is that they are Christ-followers themselves. We recommend a person who has had a positive impact on your journey with Jesus. If you can’t decide, our ministry team are always more than willing to put their hands up for the honour!
What do I have to do to get baptised?
You will be sent a short form to fill out, as well as some information that explains baptism in more detail. We want to make sure you are proceeding in full awareness of your decision and its meaning.
Can I get baptised somewhere other than the church?
The Bible gives no specific place that baptisms should occur. Rivers and lakes were used in the New Testament because they were the most convenient places someone could be fully submersed. These days, baptisms happen around the world in rivers, creeks, lakes, oceans, bathtubs, swimming pools, spas, churches and many other places. The important thing about baptism is not WHERE you’re baptised, it’s WHO you’re baptised in front of. The purpose of baptism is to SHOW others, so there needs to be an audience! The advantage of being baptised in a church is 3-fold: you will have a group of people who are overjoyed and excited about supporting your decision and celebrating with you; it encourages other believers who are watching to be baptised; and it gives you a reason to invite your friends and family who don’t know Jesus to church!
Can someone be baptised more than once?
At Door of Hope, we believe that baptism is something that a follower of Jesus only needs to do once. However, if you have been baptised as an infant in a different tradition or denomination, we encourage you to consider whether adult, ‘believer’s baptism’ is right for you when you’ve made your own decision to follow Jesus. For anyone who has already been baptised as a consenting adult, we would encourage sharing your story publicly as a way of renewing your commitment to Jesus and demonstrating your decision to follow Him. If you’d like to consider this, please email stories@door-of-hope.org
Does Door of Hope baptise babies?
As part of the Churches of Christ movement in Australia, Door of Hope believes in ‘believer’s baptism’ – the demonstration of someone’s decision to follow Jesus through baptism. As infants cannot make this decision for themselves, we do not baptise babies. We love to encourage parents to bless their children through Child Dedications instead. Child Dedications are not an act of salvation for the child, but rather a commitment made by the parents/guardians to teach and foster faith in the next generation, with help from the church community.
Is there a minimum age for baptism?
The Bible gives no guidance as to a minimum age someone has to be before being baptised. The important thing is that the person has made their own decision to follow Jesus, and understands the meaning of baptism. For anyone under the age of 18, we always encourage them to discuss their desire to be baptised with their parent/guardian beforehand. If circumstances make this difficult, our Youth ministry team are happy to assist.
Do I get warning before I get dunked under the water?
Yes. The person baptising you will always ask you some questions (to which you answer “yes”) and then make sure you are in a comfortable, kneeling position before you are submerged.
How long will I be under the water?
There is no need for you to be under water for any more than a couple of seconds. (No breathing apparatus required!!)
Do I have to say anything?
Yes. But not a lot! You will be asked a couple of questions – generally, “Do you believe that Jesus is the Son of God, died for your sins and is risen from the dead?” and, “Is it your wish that I baptise you now in front of your family, friends and church family?” – to which you answer, “YES” to both. This is the only speaking that is required. If you wish to say more, this is negotiable but not required. We would love you to share your story at another time - if you'd like to share, please email stories@door-of-hope.org
Will my baptism be live-streamed?
Yes. All the regular church services for Door of Hope are currently live-streamed and available on demand afterwards – including footage of baptisms. Many people find this a great way to share their celebration with loved ones who cannot make it in person. In extreme cases where the wellbeing of the baptisee is threatened by being shared online, we can arrange for it to be kept offline.
Find out more
For more information on baptism, or to enquire to be baptised please contact us.