What's the Big Deal About Baptism?

In 1813, Congregationalist missionaries Ann and Adoniram Judson on their ocean voyage toward their overseas mission assignment in India were together studying the Greek New Testament when they determined that in light of scripture, believer’s baptism by immersion was an appropriate practice. They acted upon their convictions in light of the scriptures and were baptized, leading them to resign their posts with the Congregational denomination and in the context of their decision, seeking to work with the hope of support from the Baptists. The Judson’s went to Burma and their friend, Luther Rice, who had also come to the same conclusion about baptism, returned to America to seek aid for the fledgling American Baptist Missions in the Far East.
Such early Baptist mission pioneers illustrate the “baptism issue” for many.
To be a Baptist was not so much a matter of necessity but rather a decision born out of an understanding of biblical practice. Baptists point to “believer’s baptism” as the act of obedience corresponding to public Christian commitment. Many who have pointed to other baptism practices, whether in variations of amount of water or in the pattern of infant baptism followed by confirmation at an age of accountability, question the necessity or wisdom of “rebaptizing” or baptism by immersion---if, in fact, their commitment to faith in Jesus Christ as Lord is valid and ongoing. The practice of our
church has been for some time to receive members from other Christian denominations by the public testimony of their faith in Jesus Christ and prior baptism, in whatever form, and offering them baptism by immersion if requested. At the same time, we extend to all those who are for the first time publicly professing their faith in Jesus Christ, the opportunity of baptism by immersion. Such has been the distinguishing practice of Baptists resulting from their understanding of the biblical model indicated in scripture.
Over the years, there have been those who suggested that one could not be saved apart from baptism. I remind them of Jesus’ words to the thief on the cross who asked Jesus to remember him when he came into his kingdom. Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (See Luke 23:39-43) There was no opportunity for baptism, but there was opportunity for God’s saving grace.
What baptism provides is a public witness of personal faith and trust in Jesus Christ. It is a step beyond the ritual purification practices of the Jewish community and a link to what Jesus described as an action “fulfilling all righteousness.” In Christ, baptism is a picture of one buried and resurrected. It illustrates a life buried like Jesus was buried, but a life risen with Christ, resurrected to new life in Him. The images of immersion provide a reminder to us all of our new life in response to our Savior’s love.
Whether or not you have been immersed, let it be a matter of conscience. Celebrate with joy the knowledge of God’s grace and forgiveness and receive Him as your Lord and Savior…that’s what we are all called to trust and bear witness to daily.
If you would like to know more, or have questions regarding your relationship to Jesus Christ and church membership, feel free to contact me through the church office or email at wfbcpastor@embarqmail.com.
(This article was previously published in The Contact, Sept. 21, 2010)