“Re-Baptism”

Friday, November 18, 2016

If you were young when you got baptized and really don't think you truly understood the meaning of being baptized, then is it okay to get re-baptized when you do fully understand?  And if you can, should you?  And if you should, is it required?  Or is the one time the only time?

Sincerely,
Dried Off

Dear Dried Off,

The word ‘baptism’ simply means ‘immersion’ – it is the reason for your immersion that makes baptism a soul-saving act.  When we understand that baptism saves us from our sins (1 Pet. 3:21) and are baptized by the authority of Christ (Acts 2:38) and believe in His Name (Mk. 16:16), then that baptism saves us.  Many people are baptized without understanding these things… in which case, they just get wet.  You will have to evaluate for yourself whether or not you understood what you were doing when you were baptized.  If you did, there is no need for re-baptism.  If not, we’d recommend you starting looking for water.

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