It is an important subject in the Bible. A form of the word appears almost 100 times in the New Testament. We call ourselves the First BAPTIST Church. So, it must be important here. In fact, baptism is a requirement to be a member of our church.
And baptism garners many questions! One reason for the questions is that baptism seems mysterious, maybe even odd. When you look into the subject, there seems to be so much variety of views and expressions.
Views and expressions of baptism:
- Paedobaptism (infant baptism) vs. Credobaptism (believer’s baptism).
- Baptism by aspersion, affusion, immersion, and submersion.
- Trine baptism (sometimes called Triune baptism or triple baptism).
- There is frontwards baptism and backwards baptism.
- Some view baptism as a sacrament, and some view baptism as an ordinance.
- Baptism in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
- Baptism in the name of Jesus.
- Baptism in the name of John.
- And the Bible even speaks of baptism by fire!
What if we started baptizing with a flame-thrower next week?
The truth is baptism is amazing, wonderful, and significant!
Think about some of the greatest celebrations in twenty-first-century American life:
- Wedding
- 50th wedding anniversary
- First birthday
- Graduation
The greatest celebration is this celebration we call baptism! So, let’s explain biblical baptism by answering ten questions.
Ten Questions
1. Why is baptism so important?
Chiefly, baptism is important because the Lord says it is important.
Luke 3:21: When all the people were baptized, Jesus also was baptized. As he was praying, heaven opened (CSB).
Jesus was baptized.
Matthew 28:19: Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit (CSB).
Jesus commanded the church to baptize people.
Acts 2:41: So those who accepted his message were baptized, and that day about three thousand people were added to them (CSB).
2. What was Jesus’s baptism all about?
At the beginning of Jesus’s ministry, He sought out John the Baptist, who was sent by the Lord to prepare people in Israel for the ministry of Christ. John was baptizing people who wanted to turn from their sins.
Jesus, being holy and without sin, was baptized to fulfill all righteousness.
Matthew 3:15: Jesus answered him, “Allow it for now, because this is the way for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then John allowed him to be baptized (CSB).
3. What does baptism mean for us?
We are sinful and guilty, so baptism for us is a celebration of salvation. It pictures and celebrates both that Jesus has saved us from our sins and how He saved us.
Baptism is similar to a wedding. A wedding ceremony celebrates and symbolizes love and commitment. Baptism celebrates, symbolizes, and proclaims our new life in Christ.
4. Does baptism save a person from their sins?
Baptism does not save you from your sins.
Ephesians 2:8-9: For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift—not from works, so that no one can boast (CSB).
5. Why don’t we baptize infants?
We believe baptism happens after someone puts their faith and trust in Christ. Baptism celebrates salvation, and infants are not capable of such faith.
6. Why should I be baptized?
The Lord commands it (Acts 2:38). Baptism is an act of worship, celebration, and proclamation of the gospel.
7. Does it matter how I am baptized?
At First Baptist Church, we practice full immersion, as it best aligns with the biblical examples and symbolism of baptism.
8. Where should I be baptized?
Baptism is a church event, celebrating faith with your church family.
9. Why is baptism a necessary part of church membership?
It affirms the authenticity of a person’s salvation and reflects a shared faith experience among members.
10. What if I was baptized in a different way?
We encourage baptism by immersion for all members to align with the New Testament example.
11. Bonus Question: What should I do if I want and need to be baptized?
Don’t delay! Reach out to a pastor or church leader to take this important step of faith.
