We encourage you to read this comparison. This may help you explain a baby dedication to your friends and family who may be unfamiliar with this practice.
The story of Hannah and Samuel highlights the practice of dedicating children to serve the Lord, a custom rooted in Jewish tradition where male infants were presented at the temple for circumcision and dedication. At Calvary Chapel Old Bridge, this dedication is celebrated publicly, allowing parents to commit to raising their children in alignment with God’s will while the congregation supports them through prayer and encouragement.
It's important to note that baby dedication is distinct from infant baptism. Dedication is a blessing that signifies parents' commitment, whereas baptism is seen by some churches as essential for salvation. At Calvary Chapel, dedication services are simple, typically held during Sunday morning services. Parents bring their child on stage, and the congregation prays for both the child and the parents. After the service, parents receive a baby dedication certificate. This practice is viewed as a meaningful way to honor and present children to God.
Water baptism is one of the two ordinances established by Jesus Christ, alongside communion. While neither ordinance brings salvation, they are commands from the Lord. At Calvary Chapel Old Bridge (CCOB), water baptism is a vital practice, allowing believers to express their obedience to Christ.
CCOB emphasizes that baptism is intended for believers only; it is not meaningful for those who have not accepted Christ. Individuals should be born again and trust in Jesus for their salvation before being baptized. This includes anyone who has accepted Christ, regardless of age, and families often choose to be baptized together.
The church practices baptism by full immersion in water, as the term "baptism" derives from a Greek word meaning to immerse. However, if immersion is not feasible, other methods, such as pouring, are also accepted. Baptism symbolizes the death of the old self and the resurrection into new life with Christ.
Matthew 28:19 | Mark 16:16 | Acts 2:38 | Acts 10:48 | Acts 22:16 | Romans 6:3 | Galatians 3:27 | Colossians 2:12