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The Family PodcastThe official marriage and parenting channel for pursueGOD.org. Author: PursueGOD
Join Tracy and Bryan Dwyer every week to talk about marriage and parenting and everything that makes for a healthier family. Find resources to continue the conversation with your family, group, or mentor at pursueGOD.org/family. Language: en Genres: Kids & Family, Parenting, Relationships, Society & Culture Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Is My Child Ready to Get Baptized?
Thursday, 11 December, 2025
Welcome back to the pursueGOD family podcast!--The PursueGOD Family podcast helps you think biblically about marriage and parenting. Join Bryan and Tracy Dwyer on Wednesday mornings for new topics every week or two. Find resources to talk about these episodes at pursueGOD.org/family.Help others go "full circle" as a follower of Jesus through our 12-week Pursuit series.Click here to learn more about how to use these resources at home, with a small group, or in a one-on-one discipleship relationship.Got questions or want to leave a note? Email us at podcast@pursueGOD.org.Donate Now --Is My Child Ready to Get Baptized?Key Verse: “For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus.” — Galatians 3:26 NLTChristian parents love the idea of seeing their kids publicly declare faith in Jesus. It’s a meaningful moment—one filled with hope, joy, and deep spiritual significance. But baptism isn’t simply a milestone or a ritual. It’s a public declaration of an internal reality, and that means readiness matters. Today’s article will help you discern whether your child truly understands the gospel and is prepared to take this important step.Understanding Baptism: What It Is—and What It Isn’tThe Bible makes it clear: baptism is a symbol, not salvation. Paul says, “For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized…” Colossians 2:12 NLT. This outward act points to an inward faith that only God can produce. Kids don’t need to grasp deep theology, but they do need a basic understanding of the gospel—who Jesus is, what He did, and why they personally need Him.Parents often feel pressure to “get the moment right,” but baptism shouldn’t be rushed. God does heart-work in His timing. Your role is to guide, teach, and shepherd—not push a child into a spiritual step they’re not ready to take.1. Does My Child Understand the Gospel?A child ready for baptism can explain—in their own words—three simple truths:Who Jesus isWhat He did on the crossWhy they personally need HimRomans 10:9 (NLT) says, “If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart… you will be saved.” You’re not looking for seminary-level answers but for personal, heartfelt faith. A red flag is motivation rooted in peer pressure: “My friends are doing it” or “It seems cool.” Baptism is a response to Jesus—not to social influence.2. Is My Child Following Jesus in Simple, Real Ways?Before baptism, you’ll often see the early signs of discipleship:They pray on their own.They ask spiritual questions.They show simple conviction when they sin.These glimpses of spiritual life point to what Paul describes: “Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 NLT. Perfection isn’t the goal—spiritual growth is. If your child shows a tender heart toward God, that’s a meaningful sign.3. Is This Their Decision?A child must want baptism for themselves—not to please a parent or leader. Ask:“Why do YOU want to get baptized?”Scripture encourages personal reflection: “Let each one examine themselves…” 1 Corinthians 11:28 NLT. Listen carefully. Genuine readiness sounds like ownership, not...
