Talking to Kids About Baptism
When a child sees a baptism at church or asks, "Can I get baptized?", it's a wonderful opportunity to talk about faith. Here's how to explain baptism simply and help your child understand this important step.
What baptism means
Baptism is a way of showing on the outside what God is doing on the inside. It pictures being washed clean and starting a new life with Jesus.
Romans 6:4: "Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life."
A simple explanation for kids: "Going under the water is like saying goodbye to the old life. Coming up out of the water is like starting a brand-new life with Jesus."
Jesus was baptized
Jesus was baptized by John in the Jordan River. When He came up out of the water, the Holy Spirit came down like a dove, and God said, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:13–17).
Jesus also told His followers to baptize: "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost" (Matthew 28:19).
Churches have different traditions
Christians practice baptism in different ways. Some churches baptize infants as a sign of God's covenant with families. Others baptize children and adults after they personally choose to follow Jesus. Some sprinkle or pour water; others immerse. Talk with your pastor about what your church believes and practices.
Questions to talk through
If your church practices believer's baptism, these questions can help you and your child think it through:
- Who is Jesus?
- Why did Jesus die and rise again?
- Have you asked Jesus to forgive you and be your Lord?
- Why do you want to be baptized?
There's no rush. Let your child's faith lead, and involve your pastor.
Celebrate the day
- Invite family and friends.
- Take photos and write down your child's story.
- Give a meaningful gift: a first Bible in a Bible cover, or something from our Christian Starter Gift Sets.
- Write a letter to your child to open on their baptism anniversary each year.
A prayer
Lord, thank You for my child's growing faith. Help them understand what it means to follow You. Whether they're baptized soon or later, let them walk in new life with You all their days. Amen.
