Yes. Jesus commanded it. He told His followers to make disciples and baptize them (Matthew 28:19). When the crowd at Pentecost asked what to do, Peter told them to repent and be baptized (Acts 2:38). Baptism doesn’t earn salvation, because we are saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8–9). But every believer is called to obey this command, and in Scripture people were baptized soon after they believed (Acts 2:41; Acts 8:36–38).

You’re ready if you have put your trust in Jesus as Lord and Savior, turned from your sin, and want to follow Him publicly (Romans 10:9–10; Acts 2:38). You don’t need to have your life figured out first. The Ethiopian official was baptized the same day he believed (Acts 8:36–38). If you understand what Jesus did for you and you’re ready to declare it, you’re ready. Talk with a pastor if you have questions.

No. In Scripture, baptism always follows a personal decision to believe and repent (Acts 2:38; Acts 8:12). A baby can’t make that decision. Instead, we encourage parents to dedicate their children to the Lord, following Hannah’s example with Samuel (1 Samuel 1:27–28) and Jesus blessing the children (Mark 10:13–16). Then, when the child is old enough to understand and believe, they can choose baptism for themselves.