At its core, following Jesus Christ means choosing to trust Him, learn from Him, and live the way He taught. Here’s what that looks like in real life: 1. Trusting Him (faith) It begins with believing in who Jesus is—God’s Son—and trusting in His death and resurrection for forgiveness and new life (Ephesians 2:8). It’s not about earning your way to God, but receiving His grace. 2. Turning toward Him (repentance) Following Jesus involves a change of direction—turning away from sin and choosing to live in a way that honors God. It’s not about being perfect, but being willing to grow. 3. Learning from Him (discipleship) You begin to shape your life around His teachings—loving others, forgiving, serving, and pursuing truth. This happens through reading the Bible, prayer, and being part of a faith community. 4. Living it out daily (obedience) Following Jesus isn’t just a belief—it’s a lifestyle. It shows up in how you treat people, the choices you make, and how you respond to challenges. 5. Being in relationship with Him More than rules or religion, it’s a relationship. You talk to Him through prayer, rely on Him, and grow to know Him personally. In short: Following Jesus means trusting Him with your life and choosing to live like Him, one step at a time.

Water baptism is a public declaration of three life-changing truths: You follow Jesus Christ. “Those who accepted his message were baptized.” —Acts 2:41 You’ve begun a new life in Christ. “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death… that we too may live a new life.” —Romans 6:4 You belong to God’s family. “…you are all children of God through faith… baptized into Christ…” —Galatians 3:26–27 A Symbol of Your Faith: Through baptism, you publicly declare that your old sinful life is gone and your faith in Jesus brings a fresh start. “For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.” - Romans 6:4 NLT

Jesus Set the Example of Baptism: Jesus was baptized to show us the right step of obedience (Matthew 3:13–17). Though John hesitated, Jesus said it was necessary to fulfill righteousness—and God affirmed His action. Baptism is a clear, biblical example we are called to follow.

Jesus Commanded All Believers to Be Baptized: Before ascending to heaven, Jesus instructed His followers to make disciples and baptize them (Matthew 28:18–20; Mark 16:15–16). Baptism is not optional—it’s a key step of faith and obedience for every believer.

When you believe that Jesus is the Son of God and are ready to receive Jesus as your Savior. When you are ready to repent—to turn your life around. When you are ready to put your past behind you and put your life in Jesus' hands. Read Acts 2:38, Colossians 3:5-10, John 1:12,13.

Many people think living a good life is enough to get them into heaven. But salvation comes only through faith in the death and resurrection of Christ. Ephesians 2:8 reminds us that we are saved by grace through faith. Have you personally and intentionally received Christ’s forgiveness and the gift of eternal life by trusting in His grace? You can make that decision today!

If you were baptized before personally choosing to follow Christ—whether as an infant or child—we invite you to take this meaningful step as a believer. If you’ve already been baptized as a believer at another church, there’s no need to be baptized again at Damascus Road!

We baptize individuals age 6 and older who understand the meaning of baptism and are ready to make a personal, public declaration of faith. We also encourage parents to partner with our Children’s and Youth ministries as they guide their children through these important faith decisions.

The New Testament teaches that baptism is a public act of worship that represents new life in Jesus. While Jesus was dedicated as a child (Luke 2:22–40), He was baptized as an adult (Matthew 3:16–17). Some churches practice infant baptism or confirmation as a commitment by parents to raise their child in faith. At Damascus Road, we follow the biblical model of believer’s baptism—when someone personally chooses to follow Jesus. At Damascus Road, we provide opportunities for child dedication and believer’s baptism. Our Child Dedications happen twice a year or can be performed during a private ceremony. Please email childrensministry@damascus.com if you are interested in dedicating your child.

Start by attending a baptism class where you can ask questions and learn what baptism means. Afterward, you’ll have the opportunity to be baptized by a pastor or leader of your choice. Bring a change of clothes for afterward. Baptisms are typically held three times a year.