Baptism can be a very controversial topic among Christians. What is it? What is it not? What method to use? All these questions are valid and important questions. I remember being younger and the sacrament of baptism was confusing to me. My [amazing] children’s pastor at my church did a whole lesson on baptism when I was about seven years old and that was when I began to get a better understanding of the topic. I was baptized on my eighth birthday and it is one of my favorite memories. This is a brief, “to the point” post that can hopefully help you better understand baptism.
First, we need to discuss what baptism isn’t. Many people think that baptism is necessary to be saved and to get into heaven. IT IS NOT! Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved through faith–and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God–not by works, so that no one can boast.” This verse clearly states that FAITH ALONE saves you. There is NOTHING we can do to earn the grace of God.
So we know that baptism is not necessary for salvation, but what is it?
Baptism is an outward testimony of of an inward change.
When you are baptized, you are proclaiming to the world and to the church that you are a follower of Jesus Christ. It is a testimony. Baptism is an expression of your faith in Jesus. Baptism isn’t just something you do for fun. Only be baptized if you have truly confessed your sins to God and desire a relationship with Him. Because although baptism doesn’t save you or get you into heaven, it is a covenant you are making with God. Its a testimony that you are choosing to follow and serve God, and that is not something to take lightly.
What method to use? This probably causes the most controversy in the evangelical church than any of these other points I have mentioned in this post. There are three main methods of baptism:
- Immersion
- Sprinkling
- Pouring
Some people believe that there is one way to be baptized and that its the only way to do it. However, I challenge you to think of it this way, “If baptism doesn’t save you, why does it matter what method you use?” Seriously. Think about it! My opinion on it is, use whatever method you want or you feel the most comfortable with. I’m not trying to offend anyone who has different opinions on this matter. That is totally okay if you have different views than me, however I want everyone to pray about it and think about if it truly matters and is worth arguing and having conflicts with people over.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” Matthew 28:19
I hope you enjoyed this post and found it helpful. I hope you stop by again to read future blog posts! -Maddie
radiant and unashamed 