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
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. We believe in immersion and the
person understanding what is happening; therefore we do not baptize infants.
At Westview 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.
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.
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.
Baptism is an essential component of Salvation. The Bible
teaches us that Salvation comes by grace, God’s amazing grace through the
death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. When Peter spoke on the
day of Pentecost, the people were pricked to the heart and they asked,
"Brothers what shall we do?", Peter’s reply was "Repent and Be
Baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of
sins"! And, the Bible clearly
teaches that we are then to be obedient to the Word of God, to walk in faith,
to become more like Christ, and to proclaim Jesus to everyone in hope of
seeking and saving the lost. This is a
life-long process that leads to Salvation.
Therefore, 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 one of our ministers
or elders. Their numbers are listed
below:
|
Name |
Position |
Church |
Home |
|
Gary Boswell |
Senior Minister |
318-635-0356 |
318-686-6972 |
|
Jon Bailey |
Youth Minister |
318-635-0356 |
318-364-8112 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ricky Womack |
Elder |
|
318-635-1166 |
|
Vernon Burgess |
Elder |
|
318-938-7883 |
|
Noel Crosswhite |
Elder |
|
903-687-4040 |
|
Larry Thomas |
Elder |
|
318-687-0260 |