Watch the video above and talk about it with a friend or mentor.

Baptism doesn’t contribute to salvation, but it is important - despite the obstacles - as a declaration of belonging to Jesus.

Christian baptism looks a lot like LDS baptism, but has a very different meaning. Baptism is not required for salvation, yet every Christ-follower should be baptized – even though this presents unique challenges for former Latter-day Saints.

Video Highlights:

  • In Mormonism, baptism is required for eternal salvation. Every child is encouraged to be baptized at age eight. Every convert to the LDS Church is baptized. Baptism is so important for salvation that the LDS Church performs proxy baptisms for people even after they have died.
  • Biblical Christianity sees baptism as symbolic. The only thing that washes our sins away is the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. Baptism is a declaration of a person’s faith or trust in Jesus and relationship with him. It is an outward symbol of an internal reality – the reality that our sins are forgiven, the old life is passed, and a new life has begun. (Romans 6:4).
  • Baptism is important because Jesus commanded it. (Matthew 28:16-20).
  • Former LDS are often hesitant to be baptized. The biggest obstacle is family displeasure. Baptism is perceived by LDS family and friends as cutting one’s ties to those relationships. To them, it invalidates or disrespects Mormonism. But God is faithful to see you through this challenge as you move forward in your obedience to him.
  • Baptism is an opportunity to reach LDS family members. Active Latter-day Saints are unlikely to join us at church. But they will often attend a baptism – even begrudgingly. This is a chance to be hospitable and loving to them. The experience will break their stereotypes and expose them to the Christian faith and church.

If you’re a Christ-follower but haven’t been baptized, consider it. Pray about it. Talk to a pastor to understand more about what baptism means, and to process your hesitations. Baptism can be a life-changing milestone once you decide to take the plunge.

[Related Topic: Christian Basics: 5 Facts about Water Baptism]

[Related Topic: Why Should I Get Baptized?]

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Key Points:

  • In Mormonism, Baptism Is Required for Eternal Salvation
  • Biblical Christianity Sees Baptism as Symbolic
  • Baptism Is Important Because Jesus Commanded It
  • Former LDS Are Often Hesitant to be Baptized
  • Baptism Is an Opportunity to Reach LDS Family Members

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Talk About It
  1. Watch the video together or invite someone to summarize the topic.
  2. What is your initial reaction to this video? Do you disagree with any of it? What jumped out at you?
  3. Have you been baptized since following Jesus? If so, why did you do it? What was it like?
  4. How did your family react? How did you handle that?
  5. If you have not been baptism since leaving Mormonism, what are some reasons why you have waited?
  6. Michelle compared baptism to a wedding ring. Do you agree or disagree? Explain.
  7. Read Romans 6:3-4. How are we identifying with Jesus when we get baptized?
  8. Read Acts 8:35-37. How long did the eunuch wait for baptism after putting his faith in Jesus? How long do you think former Mormons should wait, and why?
  9. Write a personal action step based on this conversation.

This is part of the Church Life After Mormonism series.