Become a Christian · Philadelphia, PA
How to become a Christian in Philadelphia — 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 Philadelphia 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). Not a vague spiritual feeling — a settled conviction about who Jesus is.
Repent
Turn around. Not "feel bad about yourself" — change direction, away from your old life and toward God. It's a decision, and you can make it anywhere in Philadelphia, today.
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 — no waiting period, no 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 Philadelphia
Philadelphia’s block culture can create deep belonging. It can also make a mile feel far. Kensington lives with an overdose and housing crisis that resists slogans. West and Southwest Philadelphia include longtime Black neighborhoods and immigrant families; the Northeast has grown more linguistically diverse; South Philadelphia holds several generations side by side. Summer heat, aging housing, transit reliability, and food access turn neighbor-love into practical questions.
Philadelphia can change in the space of a few SEPTA stops. A South Philly rowhouse table, a West Philly porch, a Kensington rec room, and a Northeast apartment will gather different neighbors. Center City is the postcard. Most life happens beyond it.
Following Jesus means crossing some of those short, stubborn distances. We read His words, eat together, baptize believers, share what we have, and serve beside people doing careful local work. Nobody collects money.
Philadelphia has religious institutions older than the country and neighbors who have good reasons to distrust them. Jesus did not ask people to protect an institution. He called disciples to deny themselves, take up the cross daily, love enemies, welcome strangers, and teach others to obey. The resurrection gives that costly life hope.
Where to get baptized in Philadelphia
Baptism is full immersion chosen by a believer (Acts 2:38). Philadelphia Parks & Recreation maintains public pools, but contact the individual facility before planning a baptism. City park rules prohibit swimming or wading in park waterways except at public pools with a lifeguard present. Do not use the Schuylkill, Delaware, Wissahickon, or park fountains. A permitted private pool or suitable tub is best.
A private or apartment pool
Across Philadelphia
Obtain owner or management permission and follow guest limits and safety requirements.
Philadelphia public pools
More than 60 seasonal locations
Contact the individual pool in advance for explicit approval, timing, lifeguard requirements, current schedule, and any fees.
A suitable bathtub
At home
A tub can work for careful full immersion. Plan safe footing and assistance where needed.
A permitted private indoor pool
Philadelphia area
Arrange approval directly with the operator. Philadelphia park waterways and fountains are not lawful baptism locations.
No one in Philadelphia to baptize you? Tell us with the form below or text (909) 375-3787. We will personally make sure it happens — that's a promise, not a marketing line.
Becoming a Christian — honest questions
How do I become a Christian?
Believe Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; repent; be baptized for forgiveness; and receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:36-38).
Does a sinner’s prayer save?
No. Jesus did not give one. Peter told people to repent and be baptized (Acts 2:38).
Where can I be baptized?
Use an approved pool or suitable tub. City park waterways and fountains are prohibited.
Who can baptize?
Any follower of Jesus can baptize without clergy, a building, or a fee.
Connect with people in Philadelphia
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.