An Outward Expression of an Inward Reality 

Baptism is a public demonstration of a believer’s faith in Jesus Christ. It does not bring salvation but serves as an act of obedience, symbolizing a believer’s new life in Christ and commitment to follow Him.  

No, we believe that salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. Baptism is a step of obedience that follows salvation, not a requirement for it.  

If someone was baptized as a believer after coming to faith in Jesus, we do not believe re-baptism is necessary. However, if someone was baptized before truly understanding the free gift of salvation and personal faith in Christ, we encourage them to be baptized as an act of obedience. 

Though other denominations and theological traditions baptize by pouring or sprinkling, The Mount practices baptism by immersion. We do so by conviction from the following considerations: 

1. The Greek word απτίζω (baptizo) literally means to plunge, submerge orimmerse.

   Our English word baptism is a transliteration of the Greek baptizo. Baptizo was used in Greek literature to describe the act of immersing something in water or another liquid. It later became a technical term that referred specifically to the Christian ordinance of baptism. 

2. The representation of union in Christ’s death and resurrection is best expressedthrough immersion.

   Whether buried below or above ground, the symbolism of burial is still that of being placed under something. Likewise, resurrection is accomplished by coming out of something (whether grave or tomb). Immersion best symbolizes this reality by placing the believer under the water and bringing them out. 

   In addition, it is interesting to note the use of water to symbolize judgment in the Scriptures (e.g. the flood of Genesis 6-7 and the destruction of Egypt in the Red Sea of Exodus 14). Thus, by passing through the waters of baptism, the believer expresses trust that God’s judgment has been satisfied by Christ. 

   Colossians 2:12 “having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead.”

No, we believe baptism is for believers—those who have made a personal decision to follow Jesus Christ. Since infants cannot make such a profession of faith, we do not practice infant baptism. 

No. Family dedication and baptism are two different acts with two different purposes. Family dedication is a commitment by parents to raise their children in a Christ-centered home, leading them in the faith and pointing them to Jesus. While not an ordinance, it is a meaningful moment where parents publicly commit to their role in their child’s spiritual life and the church prays over the child and family. For more information about “Family Dedication” you can go here.

Baptism at The Mount is open to anyone who has placed their faith in Jesus Christ, but believer’s baptism is also a requirement for church membership. Those seeking membership must have been baptized by immersion as a believer. 

While we welcome all believers, we believe baptism is best celebrated in the context of the local church where a person is actively involved. If The Mount is not your home church, we encourage you to pursue baptism within your own church community. If you are considering making The Mount your church home, we encourage you to connect with a Community Group and begin the membership process. 

We offer two Baptism Sundays each year, allowing individuals to choose a specific date and service time when signing up through our website. 

Baptisms are typically conducted by our elders or ministers. However, fathers who are covenant members of the church may baptize their children as spiritual leaders in their homes. 

1. Share Your Story: Baptism candidates are asked to submit a testimony of how they came to faith in Christ. 

2. Meet with a Minister or Elder: A one-on-one meeting with a minister or elder will ensure clarity about baptism and provide an opportunity for prayer and encouragement. 

3. Schedule Your Baptism: After mutual agreement that baptism is the right step, you'll receive a confirmation and logistics email to prepare you for your baptism Sunday.  

4. Receive Confirmation and Instructions: Before your baptism, you will receive final details, including what to bring and what to expect on the day of your baptism. 

Sharing your testimony is an opportunity to glorify God by telling others how He has worked in your life. Your testimony does not need to be long, but it should highlight key moments, including how you came to faith in Jesus and what He has done in your life. Personal testimonies are a powerful part of the baptism experience, and the church aims to help you share your story effectively. An Elder or Minister will guide you in crafting your testimony, helping you share your story in a clear and meaningful way so that you feel confident and prepared for your baptism Sunday. 

We understand that sharing a testimony in front of a large group can be intimidating. While we encourage everyone to share, we will work with you to find an approach that honors both your comfort level and the importance of proclaiming your faith in Jesus. Please speak with a minister or elder to discuss options.