What the Bible Says About Confirmation

What Does the Bible Say About Confirmation? Understanding Its True Meaning

Confirmation is one of those beautiful moments in a believer’s journey when faith moves from something taught to something personally embraced. While the exact word “Confirmation” does not appear in Scripture, the idea behind it is deeply biblical. It is about being strengthened, sealed, and empowered by the Holy Spirit to live as a faithful disciple of Christ.

In this article, we’ll explore what the Bible says about Confirmation, how it began, and what it truly means for your spiritual life today.

1. The Roots of Confirmation in the Bible

Even though the ceremony of Confirmation developed later in church tradition, its foundation comes from the Bible itself.

When we look at the book of Acts, we see how the apostles would lay hands on believers after baptism so that they could receive the Holy Spirit.

Acts 8:14-17 says:
“When the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to Samaria. When they arrived, they prayed for the new believers there that they might receive the Holy Spirit.”

This moment captures the essence of Confirmation. It’s not just about joining a church; it’s about receiving strength and guidance from the Holy Spirit to live out your faith boldly.

2. The Promise of the Holy Spirit

Before Jesus ascended to heaven, He promised that the Holy Spirit would come to guide and empower His followers.

Acts 1:8 says:
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Confirmation celebrates this very promise. It’s when a believer acknowledges their faith and opens their heart to the Spirit’s power. The Holy Spirit gives courage, wisdom, and love to walk faithfully in a world that often tests our beliefs.

3. Strengthened in Faith

The word Confirmation comes from the Latin confirmare, meaning “to strengthen.” This perfectly describes what happens spiritually. Through Confirmation, we are strengthened in our commitment to Christ.

Ephesians 3:16 says:
“I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being.”

The Bible teaches that faith is not static. It grows, matures, and becomes stronger when we open ourselves to God’s work within us. Confirmation is that step where personal faith becomes mature faith.

4. Living as Witnesses of Christ

After being filled with the Holy Spirit, believers in Scripture became bold witnesses of Jesus. They preached, served, forgave, and lived with love.

2 Corinthians 1:21-22 beautifully explains this truth:
“Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.”

That “seal” is what many Christians understand as Confirmation—a visible and spiritual mark that you belong to God.

5. The Laying on of Hands

The physical gesture of laying hands on someone during Confirmation has deep biblical roots. It was a sign of blessing, healing, and empowerment.

Hebrews 6:1-2 refers to this as a foundational teaching of the early Church:
“Therefore let us move beyond the elementary teachings about Christ and be taken forward to maturity... instruction about cleansing rites, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.”

This act symbolizes the transmission of grace and spiritual strength. It reminds us that faith is not a solo journey—it’s shared, nurtured, and blessed within the body of Christ.

6. Confirmation as a Personal Commitment

Baptism often happens when we are young, but Confirmation allows us to make a personal choice to follow Jesus wholeheartedly. It’s a way of saying, “Yes, I believe,” not because someone told me to, but because I truly want to live for Christ.

Romans 10:9 says:
“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

This is the heart of Confirmation—faith that is alive, personal, and genuine.

7. A Life Filled with the Spirit

After Confirmation, the journey doesn’t end. It’s only the beginning of a Spirit-filled life.

Galatians 5:22-23 tells us about the fruit that grows in the life of one who walks with the Holy Spirit:
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”

Living in these virtues is the true sign that God’s Spirit is active in you.

Final Reflection

Confirmation is not just a ceremony. It’s a sacred milestone in your walk with God. It reminds you that the Holy Spirit lives within you, guiding, strengthening, and empowering you every day.

If you’ve been confirmed or are preparing for it, remember this: God has already chosen you. Confirmation is your way of saying, “Yes, Lord, I am yours.”