Baptism
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INFORMATION ON BAPTISM
“How important is baptism in the Bible?”
New believers are challenged in the Bible to be baptized as a testimony of their faith in Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:18-19; Acts 10:48)
“What is the meaning and purpose of baptism?”
Baptism is a biblical directive for Christ-followers. Baptism is a way for those who have become Christian believers to publicly make a profession of their faith in Jesus Christ (Matthew 10:32). As a person is immersed in the waters of baptism he or she is proclaiming, “I believe in Jesus Christ; His death, burial, and resurrection; and I am trusting in Him alone for my salvation” ( I Corinthians 15:3-4; Romans 6:4). Another purpose of baptism is as a witness to non-believers. Baptism is an excellent way to proclaim and illustrate gospel truths and to invite others to faith in Jesus Christ.
“Who are the proper candidates for baptism?”
Since baptism is a public acknowledgment of faith in Jesus Christ, it logically follows that the only valid candidates for baptism are believers in Him. In the Bible baptism is reserved for followers of Christ only; there is no biblical incidence of an unbeliever ever participating in Christian baptism. “If you believe with all your heart, you can be baptized.” Baptism is reserved for believers in Jesus Christ.
“What is the proper way to be baptized?
In the Bible the word “baptize” means “to immerse.” Certainly immersion, then, is the correct and preferred mode of baptism and indeed was the Biblical method used. Through history, pouring or sprinkling has become an alternative method of baptism by some groups. This change may have occurred because baptism by immersion in a lake, river, or other body of water wasn’t available. Tradition or even convenience may be other reasons some have gone to other methods of baptism besides immersion. At LifePointe Church we believe in immersion. However, in special circumstances due to physical challenges, or other warranted issues, an alternative method of baptism may be honored at LifePointe Church.
“Is baptism necessary for salvation?”
Baptism is not a “sacrament” in the sense that it imparts any special blessing, holiness, forgiveness, or salvation to participants. Baptism is more properly called an “ordinance.” We participate in the ordinance of baptism because it was established, ordained, and commanded (“ordered”) by the Lord Jesus Christ as a symbolic demonstration of our faith in Him. Baptism does not save; it does not wash away sin. These come only by receiving Jesus Christ by faith (Ephesians 2:8-9; John 14:6). But even though baptism does not save, it is not optional in the Bible. Believers are called to be baptized.