District Church Presents
Dunked
by Decision
Going Public With Your Faith in Jesus
Baptism is not about checking a religious box. It's about publicly declaring:"Jesus has changed my life, and I belong to Him."
The Big Idea
An outward declaration
of an inward transformation
Going Under
When someone goes under the water, it represents:
- Dying to the old life
- Leaving sin and shame behind
- Being buried with Christ
Coming Up
When they come up out of the water, it represents:
- New life in Jesus
- Resurrection power
- A fresh start
- Living fully for Christ
Baptism doesn't save us — Jesus does. But baptism is the biblical response of someone who has surrendered their life to Christ. Jesus was baptized. Jesus commands His followers to be baptized. And throughout the New Testament, people who put their faith in Jesus went public with that faith through baptism.
The Word
Key Scriptures
Romans 6:4
"We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death… so that… we too might walk in newness of life."
Matthew 28:19
"Go therefore and make disciples… baptizing them…"
Acts 2:41
"Those who received the message "were baptized.""
2 Corinthians 5:17
"If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation."
Before You Get Dunked
Preparation Questions
We want every person to understand what baptism means, why they're doing it, and what they're declaring. This is not pressure — this is preparation.
Your Faith Story
- 1.When did you first begin believing in Jesus?
- 2.What has Jesus changed in your life?
- 3.What does following Jesus mean to you personally?
- 4.Why do you want to get baptized?
- 5.What are you leaving behind as you follow Jesus?
- 6.What are you stepping into with Jesus?
Understanding Baptism
- 1.Do you understand that baptism does not save you, but publicly declares your faith in Jesus?
- 2.Do you believe Jesus died for your sins and rose again?
- 3.Have you personally chosen to follow Jesus?
- 4.Are you willing to publicly identify yourself as a follower of Christ?
- 5.Do you understand that following Jesus is a daily commitment, not just a one-time emotional moment?
Share Your Story
Your Testimony
One of the most powerful parts of baptism is sharing what Jesus has done. Encourage honesty, simplicity, and authenticity. People connect with real stories.
Before Jesus
What was your life like before fully surrendering to Him?
How I Met Jesus
What led you to trust Him?
After Jesus
What has changed because of Him?
Discipleship Moment
Meaningful Conversations
We want baptism to become a discipleship moment — not just an event. Have at least one meaningful conversation before baptism day.
With Parents
- Why does baptism matter to you?
- What has Jesus been teaching you?
- How can we help you continue growing in your faith?
With Friends
- Would you come support me at my baptism?
- Can I share why this decision matters to me?
- Is there anything you want prayer for?
With a Mentor or Leader
- What does it really mean to follow Jesus?
- What challenges should I expect as I grow in faith?
- How can I stay rooted in God's Word after baptism?
For Families
Kids + Baptism
We absolutely believe kids can genuinely follow Jesus and make powerful faith decisions. At the same time, we want baptism to be understood — not rushed.
Because baptism is a public declaration of personal faith, we believe it's best for children to be at least 7 years old before being baptized.
Ready When They Can
- Understand the Gospel
- Explain their faith in their own words
- Recognize the significance of the decision they're making
- Clearly communicate what baptism represents
Baptism Should Never Be
- Family pressure
- Emotional hype
- "Everyone else is doing it"
- A religious checkbox
For younger children showing interest, we encourage ongoing conversations, discipleship, prayer, and biblical teaching until they are ready.
Baptism is your opportunity
Get Ready
Baptism Day
What to Bring
- Dark shirt and shorts
- Towel
- Change of clothes
- Invite friends and family!
What to Expect
- Celebration
- Worship
- Sharing stories
- Public declaration of faith
A church family cheering you on
This is not the finish line.
It's the beginning of a life fully surrendered to Jesus.
Final Challenge
Don't just admire Jesus privately.
Follow Him publicly.
"My old life is gone.
Jesus is my Savior.
And I'm not ashamed to let the world know."