Become a Christian · Lincoln, NE
How to become a Christian in Lincoln: the Acts 2 way.
When a crowd in Jerusalem asked "what shall we do?", Peter gave a four-part answer that still stands: believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; repent; be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:36-38). You can do all of that in Lincoln this week. No class, no membership, no cost.
What Peter actually said
The first time anyone ever asked "how do I become a Christian?" was about fifty days after Jesus rose from the dead, in Acts chapter 2. Peter had just told a Jerusalem crowd that Jesus, the man they crucified, is both Lord and Christ. The text says they were "cut to the heart" and asked what to do. Here's the answer, straight from the source:
"Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."
Acts 2:38
Believe
That Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. That's how Peter confessed Him (Matthew 16:16) and how John said we come to life in His name (John 20:31). This is a settled conviction about who Jesus is, not a vague spiritual feeling.
Repent
Turn around. Repentance means changing direction, away from your old life and toward God. It is deeper than feeling bad about yourself, and you can make that decision anywhere in Lincoln.
Be baptized
Full immersion in water, in the name of Jesus Christ, for the forgiveness of your sins. In the Bible people were baptized the same day they believed, with no waiting period or committee (Acts 8:36-38). Any believer can baptize you.
Receive the Holy Spirit
"The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off" (Acts 2:39). God doesn't leave you to figure the rest out alone.
Following Jesus in Lincoln
The Near South, Belmont, University Place, West Lincoln, and the Haymarket do not share the same schedule or transportation. UNL brings students from many places, while winter weather can narrow a homebound adult's week to a few rooms. Public pools are seasonal and library rooms require approval. Build a gathering around the people who will actually attend, account for bus routes and snow, and let service become a relationship rather than a photo.
Lincoln carries the pace of a state capital and a university town, yet much of life still happens block by block. A student can be surrounded by people and lonely. A homebound neighbor in Belmont can need one reliable errand. A newly arrived family in the Near South may need a patient friend who explains one school form without taking over. Following Jesus begins close enough to notice.
University classrooms, old church experiences, grief, and ordinary Nebraska life all produce real questions. We do not hide from them. We read Jesus and the apostles in context, distinguish Scripture from tradition, and keep the invitation free.
Where to get baptized in Lincoln
Lincoln's public pools are seasonal and operate under reservations, fees, lifeguard coverage, weather decisions, and posted rules. Call the pool and ask for explicit permission. During cold months, a permitted indoor pool or suitable tub is safer than outdoor water.
City of Lincoln public pools
Lincoln
Pool rentals are seasonal and subject to fees, lifeguards, weather, and facility rules. Ask the specific pool for permission before planning.
A permitted private indoor pool
Lincoln area
Confirm the operator allows baptism and follow insurance, guest, supervision, and access rules.
A private residential pool
Lincoln
Get the owner's clear permission and plan safe entry, exit, and assistance.
A suitable bathtub
At home
A tub can work year-round when full immersion and safe movement are possible. Use nonslip footing and enough help.
No one in Lincoln to baptize you? Tell us with the form below or text (909) 375-3787. We will personally help you arrange it. That's a promise, not a marketing line.
Becoming a Christian: honest questions
How does someone become a Christian?
Believe Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; repent; be baptized in His name for forgiveness; and receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:36-38).
Can baptism happen in winter?
Yes. Use a permitted indoor pool or a suitable tub and plan safe full immersion.
Connect with people in Lincoln
Whether you're curious about Jesus or you've followed Him for years, tell us where you're at and what you're interested in. A real person reads every one of these and helps you take a next step: learning, serving, or finding others near you. No spam, and nobody will ever ask you for money.