What is Baptism?

There are many scriptures in the Bible where we are told by Jesus, and by the prophets down through the ages, that if we call upon the name of the Lord, we will be saved.

  • Jesus said, "...He that believeth and is baptized, shall be saved; but he that believeth not, shall be damned" (Mark 16:15-16). 

Passages of the Bible are sometimes misinterpreted by the average reader of the scriptures because they think of “Baptism” as immersion into a pool of water, or a sprinkling of water.  These sacraments are meant to be a public demonstrations of a sincere commitment to God and Jesus Christ. These Sacraments are good, because they publicly demonstrate the commitment of the individual, even though these sacraments aren't what's solely required to received the gift of God, which is everlasting life. 

A believer's personal decision to be publicly baptized by water is important with respect to publicly demonstrating an individual's commitment, demonstrating their faith in God and Jesus Christ. What is the appropriate age of commitment? It depends on the individual's ability to comprehend their decision to "believe." and to make a commitment of faith. 

"Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven. Whosoever shall deny Me before men, him will I also deny before My Father which is in heaven." Matthew 10:32-33

Water Baptism sacraments given to an infant don't really demonstrate an individual's conscious decision to follow Jesus Christ, and to do God's will. There's nothing wrong with it, but it's merely a wish by the parents that the infant receive God's saving grace. 

But, a conscious decision by a person who has attained full maturity with respect to making spiritual decisions, and a full understanding of the saving requirements of a commitment, are what matters to God and Jesus Christ with respect to water Baptism.

Christian Confirmation establishes that Baptism to an infant, if eventually "confirmed," would be considered a public confession of faith, provided the individual being confirmed has the mature consciousness of mind to fully understand the requirements of a believer, and to commit to them.  

“Baptism” actually means a spiritual connection and sincere commitment to God and Jesus Christ, attained through an indwelling of the Holy Spirit within the individual. This commitment includes believing that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and through Him only salvation is attained by following God and Jesus Christ's commandments, which are clearly outlined in the Bible.




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