Baptism
Biblical Answers About Baptism
Why Be
Baptized?
Many people ask, “Why should I be baptized?” That’s a
valid question. There are several biblical reasons.
To follow Jesus’ example (Matthew
3:13-17). Even though he was perfect, and sinless,
Jesus willingly submitted himself to baptism as he
began his ministry. We should follow his example,
submitting to baptism into Christ.
To obey what Christ commanded (Matthew
28:19). Baptism is not an option, a take it or
leave it proposition. Christ issued this command as
one having all authority. Thus, baptism is not a
preference of men or a church, but an imperative
command of Jesus.
To follow the teachings of the Disciples
(Acts 8:35-38). Phillip’s preaching of Jesus
involved an explanation of baptism. Otherwise, the
eunuch would not have asked the question about being
baptized.
(Acts 2:38) Peter taught that part of one's response
to Christ in addition to repentance was baptism.
(Acts 16:29-34) Paul explained to the Philippian
jailer that there is something to do to be
saved. His answer was to believe in the Lord
Jesus. Please notice that baptism followed this
belief and was a demonstration of this belief. Mere
belief is not consistent with The New Testament
conversions. Baptism always follows believing in
Jesus.
The early church baptized (Acts 2:36-38,
41; Acts 8:5-12; Acts 18:8). Those who were baptized
first believed in Jesus, repented of sin, and then
were baptized. One is to be a repentant believer to
be eligible for baptism.
To wash away our sins (Acts 2:38, 22:16).
An inward cleansing that trades our sins for God’s
Spirit! The water does not cleanse; it is a symbol
of the cleansing that comes from Christ’s death,
burial, and resurrection. (1Peter 3:18-21)
To pledge allegiance to Christ (1Peter
3:18-21). Our baptism is a public proclamation and
affirmation of our faith. It is our “pledge of a
good conscience toward God.”
Burial of the old self (Romans 6:3, 4;
Colossians 2:12). The baptismal is a “water
grave.” It pictures the death and burial of our old
self. It also pictures our resurrection with Christ.
To be clothed with Christ (Galatians 3:26,
27). This outward act of obedience displays our
loyalty to Christ
What About
Infant Baptism?
Many ask: “I was baptized as a baby, do I need to
be baptized again?” The Bible only speaks of people
being baptized who were old enough to make that decision
on their own. When babies are baptized, it is usually a
parent or grandparent doing the best they know to do for
the child. Notice what the Bible connects with
baptism: Believe and be baptized (Mark 16:15). Confess
our belief and be baptized (Acts 2:38). Call on the Lord
(pray) and be baptized (Acts 22:16). Can a baby do any
of these?
Infant baptism normally involves “sprinkling.” The Bible
word for baptism means to immerse, dip into, submerge,
cover over. Only in this way does baptism picture
Christ’s death and resurrection, and the removal of
sin. Sprinkling does not. Furthermore, sprinkling
actually began 1000 years after the New Testament was
written.
Is Baptism
Required For Church Membership?
At Lake Sawyer Christian Church we require no more or
no less than what Jesus required of His Church. Because
Christ commanded baptism for His followers (Matthew
28:18-20), we require the same.
When And Where
Can I Be Baptized?
Immediately! When you understand God desires this and
why, do it at once. We encourage you to do it in one of
our worship services, as a public testimony to
others. But we can arrange to baptize you anytime (it
happened after midnight in Acts 16:25-33). It does not
have to be in a church building, though our baptistery
is always available.
What About
Children?
There is no certain age where every child is prepared
for baptism. Any child old enough to understand what
Jesus did for them on the cross, and who has accepted
Christ as their personal savior, should be baptized.
Are You Saved
By Being Baptized?
No! Salvation is by faith in the death, burial and
resurrection of Jesus. However, the Bible teaches that
the natural response to this faith is repentance and
baptism. When it comes to the issue of baptism, it is
our desire to be obedient to the scriptures. In them we
see:
- Jesus commanded it (Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:16).
- The disciples taught it (Acts 2:38; 8:30-38;
16:30-33)
- The early Church practiced it (Acts 2:41; 8:12;
10:47)
We will follow the New Testament design.
For further help and information, please call the
church office, (360) 886-8045
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