So today I’m struggling with the issue of baptism in the church. We have probably all been baptized as infants and I’m wondering why. Is it from tradition? Is it because we think we will go to hell if we don’t get baptized soon after birth? Is it for children, infants, or only for adults? Have we honored God with the way we practice baptism? Should we be immersed, sprinkled, or dry cleaned?
And what passages from the Bible help you to understand the meaning and practice of baptism? Some folks say that adult baptism is the only way and that children should be dedicated, but I’m not sure where we find that in the Bible.
The Presbyterian church explains that baptism in the New Testament is like circumcision in the Old Testament. It’s a covenant sign and promise by believing parents. Who knows? I’m not really asking you. Who out there really knows?
Recently I’ve been thinking that we should practice only adult baptism, or require lots of training for parents who desire their children to be baptized. How many people have their children “done” and then don’t raise them in the Christian faith?
Anyway, I’d be interested to read your thoughts on this matter. Some Sunday morning in the not too distant future, we will have a lively discussion/debate on this subject. I believe it really matters to God.
Yours in Christ,
George
...thoughts on Baptism. In Romans 6, we learn how baptism symbolizes our dying to self,(being immersed in water) faithfully believing we are now one with Christ, raised up a new creation(coming up out of the water).Doesn't each one of us have to come to that place in our lives where we make that conscious decision and commitment? If so, can a baby or young child do this? Having your baby baptized is a beautiful outward expression of faith performed by the parents, but then I think as we grow up, we need to recommit to that faith individually and personally, perhaps with an outward sign of baptism.As an infant I was baptized in the Roman Catholic rite, but as an adult, baptized into the Body of Christ as a recommitted believer. So very blessed to have had the opportunity to participate in my own baptism. Not making a statement of right or wrong, better or best, but just my thoughts...as we are taught, it's all about a personal relationship with Christ and the decision to follow Him.
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