Faith and Salvation

Do I need to be baptized before taking communion?

Communion in the New Testament is shared among believers who have already publicly identified with Christ, so baptism naturally comes first as the entry point into that shared fellowship.

Published 2026-09-13 · Updated 2026-09-27

Written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team. Read our editorial policy.

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Biblical explanation

The Lord's Supper was instituted among Jesus' committed disciples, and the early church's pattern in Acts shows new believers being baptized and then continuing steadfastly in the apostles' teaching, fellowship, and the breaking of bread. Baptism marks a person's public entrance into the family of faith, while communion renews and celebrates that same covenant relationship together as a community. Someone still exploring faith is warmly welcome to attend and observe, but taking communion works best as a next step after baptism, not before it, so both symbols keep their full meaning.

In brief

The Lord's Supper was instituted among Jesus' committed disciples, and the early church's pattern in Acts shows new believers being baptized and then continuing steadfastly in the apostles' teaching, fellowship, and the breaking of bread.

Bible references

Go deeper into this topic What Does Baptism Really Mean? Start the study

Editorial note

This answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.