Is it a problem if I’ve been baptized multiple times?

While this is not ideal and theologically a bit confusing, it is not sinful. There are diverse views about baptism which you’ll likely meet in your Christian journey, and even if we don’t specifically agree with some other practices, we would not punish or shame someone for participating in the sacramental practices of the church to which you are called. Within certain theological boundaries, we affirm and celebrate baptismal practices from many church backgrounds (including Baptist, Roman Catholic, and many more).

In the USA and the global West, because there are so many different views on baptism, multiple baptisms are incredibly common. Personally, I was baptized twice by the same minister, once “sprinkled” out of a coffee cup and another time dunked in a swimming pool. The Lord has grace for his people as we all continue to work out our salvation with fear and trembling. Every one of us must continue growing in our understanding of these beautiful and enormous mysteries.

One important risk of multiple baptisms is the subtle message that one church is more pure or faithful than another and therefore their sacramental practices are more effective than the other. We must resist the temptation to communicate, “we have it right and all the others have it wrong.” We do not set ourselves over or against other churches who are also imperfect and imperfectly proclaiming the Lordship of Jesus. We’re on the same team.