What’s the Deal with… Baptism?
Our fellowship is known for its emphasis on the necessity of water baptism. Some might even argue that we have placed too much emphasis on the subject. In my 50 years of ministry, I can see where the objection is valid in some cases.
I knew a man in south Alabama who was responsible for over 200 baptisms in his lifetime —which is remarkable! He was NOT a preacher or an elder, just a passionate, evangelistic Christian! However, of that number very few actually became growing disciples. For him baptism was the end goal. He thought, “If I convince people they need to be baptized or re-baptized (as was the case most of the time), I’ve done my job.”
He treated baptism as some “magical” act that in and of itself saved people. For him, it was the end result of his evangelistic effort. Nothing else was needed. That “magical” thinking is still present is many of us.
Water baptism is the final act in an unbeliever’s initial journey of FAITH. That journey leads them from unbelief to complete trust in Jesus as the source and basis of their salvation. Baptism has no power in itself. It is the place and time at which God’s promised justification (forgiveness) and sanctification (reception of the Holy Spirit and regeneration—new birth) is received.
It is not an act of righteousness or meritorious work. Water does not forgive sins; the blood of Jesus forgives sins when one submits in faith to God.
Once one has been baptized, it is only the beginning of their Christian walk. In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus commands that we “make disciples.” That is accomplished by going (evangelism), baptizing (faith commitment demonstrated), and teaching (discipleship).
For the next three weeks, I will be addressing, What’s the deal with baptism? in my Sunday messages. I will be answering your questions on all the how, where, and why’s of baptism from the word of God.
I want to explain our emphasis on baptism from a biblical perspective and answer any objections from the Scripture.
I will be using a question/answer format in these lessons. You might want to submit any questions you want answered. Feel free to call/text me.
– Joey
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