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. We believe in immersion and the person
understanding what is happening; therefore do not
baptize infants.
Is Baptism
Required For Church Membership?
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.
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?
Baptism
is an essential component of Salvation. The Bible teaches
us that Salvation is by faith in the death, burial
and resurrection of Jesus, followed by Baptism.
When the jailer's asked Paul, "What shall I do to be
saved?", Paul's response was "Repent and Be Baptized"!
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, 318-635-0356
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