How to Speak to Your Child About Baptism

Baptism is one of the most significant ordinances in Christianity and represents an important step in the faith walk of believers of any age. Colossians 2:12 and Romans 6:3-5 compare a Christian's baptism symbolically with death, burial and resurrection. Through baptism, Christians identify with Christ's death and resurrection in a public way, as a testimony of their faith for all who witness their baptism. If your child has questions about baptism, answer them as simply yet completely as you can.

Things You'll Need

  • Bible

Instructions

  1. How to Speak to Your Child about Baptism

    • 1

      Talk about what baptism symbolizes. Explain that the person being baptized doesn't literally die -- and in fact isn't hurt at all -- but that he is saying that he wants to stop living life simply for himself and to start following Jesus. Jesus died, was buried and rose again. When someone is baptized, they are "buried with him in baptism" and "raised with him through faith," according to Colossians 2:12.

    • 2

      Read the story of Jesus' baptism with your child. You can find it in Matthew 3:13-17, Mark 1:9-11 and Luke 3:21-22. Explain that when we are baptized, we follow Jesus' example. If you like, you can also read an account of the baptism of an early convert to Christianity in Acts 8:26-40.

    • 3

      Ask your child if he is interested in being baptized. If he says that he is, ask him why. Some kids will surprise you with how well they understand the reason for being baptized -- making a public and tangible statement of their faith in Jesus Christ -- and may be ready to take this step at an early age. Others may not really understand what baptism is really about. If a child isn't ready, don't force the issue. Simply continue to teach him about faith in Jesus as you are able. If your child is ready to be baptized, contact your minister to set a time for his baptism.

    • 4

      Explain to your child what will actually happen when he is baptized. It's important that she understands the spiritual significance. It's also important that she has some idea of what will be expected of her and what the minister will do. This will vary somewhat depending on what type of church you attend. Some churches practice full immersion, others practice sprinkling or pouring of water over the baptismal candidate's head. If you're unclear of your church's practice, ask your pastor to explain it to your child.

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