1. The Meaning of Baptism
Baptism is one of the two ordinances (practices) of the New Testament Church. The other is communion. The term baptism originally meant to immerse cloth into dye to change its color. Therefore, New Testament baptism is by immersion.
Gradually, the term baptism came to indicate a belief in an idea or person. Those baptized by John (the Baptist) indicated their belief in the need to repent and turn to God for forgiveness (Mark 1:4). It preceded the message of Christ (Acts 19:4-5).
Eventually, baptism indicated belief in the substitutional death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
It is an outward demonstration of inner belief in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. It is the wedding ring of the Christian faith. It's an outward symbol of an inward commitment.
It occurs in others' presence to indicate a willingness to be identified as a follower of Christ. By deduction, it also indicates dissociation from previous beliefs.
Baptism is not salvific. There is no special blessing associated with it apart from the joy of obeying the Lord.
It is practiced by those who have already professed belief in Jesus Christ. Therefore, it is a post-salvation event. There is no biblical support for infant baptism.
In summary:
Gradually, the term baptism came to indicate a belief in an idea or person. Those baptized by John (the Baptist) indicated their belief in the need to repent and turn to God for forgiveness (Mark 1:4). It preceded the message of Christ (Acts 19:4-5).
Eventually, baptism indicated belief in the substitutional death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
It is an outward demonstration of inner belief in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. It is the wedding ring of the Christian faith. It's an outward symbol of an inward commitment.
It occurs in others' presence to indicate a willingness to be identified as a follower of Christ. By deduction, it also indicates dissociation from previous beliefs.
Baptism is not salvific. There is no special blessing associated with it apart from the joy of obeying the Lord.
It is practiced by those who have already professed belief in Jesus Christ. Therefore, it is a post-salvation event. There is no biblical support for infant baptism.
In summary:
- Baptism is an act of obedience because it's a command. Matthew 28:19
- Baptism is for those who have already placed their faith in Jesus Christ. Acts 2:41, 8:12, 8:36
- Baptism is an outward sign of inward regeneration. Galatians 3:27
- Baptism is symbolic of:
- The believer's unity with Christ. Romans 6:1-10, Colossians 2:12
- The believer's new nature in Christ. Colossians 2:12
- The believer's cleansing from sin through Christ. Hebrews 10:22
- The believer's future resurrection because of Christ. Romans 6:3-5
Resources
2. The Practice of Baptism
Here are some suggestions regarding the practice of baptism:
Keep it clear. Post baptism information on the church website so people understand what it means and how the ceremony will proceed.
Keep it biblical. Before the actual ceremony, privately ask the candidates if they have read and are in agreement with the posted information. Ask if they are trusting in the substitutional death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ alone for forgiveness and eternal life? Don't proceed unless the candidate(s) affirms this. Don't wait if they do.
Keep it simple. Ask two questions at the ceremony. First, “Are you trusting in the substitutional death and resurrection of Jesus Christ alone for your eternal life?” Second, "Is there anyone you would like to thank for helping you take this step of obedience?" It would be great if they were present. Don't ask for testimonials. They can lead to rambling stories and unnecessarily long ceremonies.
Keep it unhindered. Don't combine it with membership, pledges, covenants, or offerings.
Keep it personal. Let disciple-makers baptize disciples. The Great Commission assigns this role to disciple-makers. Let teachers baptize their students.
Keep it joyful. Share reports of baptisms during the celebration service and on the website.
Keep it accessible. Construct a baptismal font on the church grounds. It can double as a fountain. Encourage baptisms after services. Post a document near the baptismal font that provides an explanation. Include a bell that people can ring when baptism occurs so others can celebrate. Look online at creative structures that churches use to baptize, such as the one Saddleback church uses.
Keep it clear. Post baptism information on the church website so people understand what it means and how the ceremony will proceed.
Keep it biblical. Before the actual ceremony, privately ask the candidates if they have read and are in agreement with the posted information. Ask if they are trusting in the substitutional death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ alone for forgiveness and eternal life? Don't proceed unless the candidate(s) affirms this. Don't wait if they do.
Keep it simple. Ask two questions at the ceremony. First, “Are you trusting in the substitutional death and resurrection of Jesus Christ alone for your eternal life?” Second, "Is there anyone you would like to thank for helping you take this step of obedience?" It would be great if they were present. Don't ask for testimonials. They can lead to rambling stories and unnecessarily long ceremonies.
Keep it unhindered. Don't combine it with membership, pledges, covenants, or offerings.
Keep it personal. Let disciple-makers baptize disciples. The Great Commission assigns this role to disciple-makers. Let teachers baptize their students.
Keep it joyful. Share reports of baptisms during the celebration service and on the website.
Keep it accessible. Construct a baptismal font on the church grounds. It can double as a fountain. Encourage baptisms after services. Post a document near the baptismal font that provides an explanation. Include a bell that people can ring when baptism occurs so others can celebrate. Look online at creative structures that churches use to baptize, such as the one Saddleback church uses.
