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The Importance of
Baptism
It is our desire as a church to
discover what Scripture teaches, then to practice and teach it ourselves. In
light of the following study, we believe in baptism by immersion following
conversion, and we teach it as an important part of being a Christian.
I.
Why
Does FBC Emphasize Baptism?
A. Jesus
ordained and commanded it.
1.) Matthew 28:18-20; baptism is one of several
aspects of the Great Commission.
2.) John 3:22; Jesus helped His disciples
baptize others.
B. The
Apostles taught it. Acts 2:38; Peter tells the crowd to "repent and be
baptized."
C. Acts
show believers did it.
1.) 2:41; 3000 believed, were baptized and added
to the church.
2.) 8:12; Samaritans believed Philip and were
baptized.
3.) 8:38; Ethiopian eunuch was baptized.
4.) 9:17-18; Saul (Paul) believed and was
baptized.
5.) 10:47-48; Peter baptized the Gentiles who
believed.
6.) 16:14-15; Paul baptized Lydia (with her
household).
7.) 16:33; Philippian jailer was baptized with
his household.
8.) 18:8; Corinthians and leader of synagogue
were baptized.
9.) 19:2-5; Paul baptizes disciples of John the
Baptist when they believe in Jesus Christ.
II.
What
Does Baptism Do?
A. Baptism
is not necessary for salvation. If a person has received Christ but not
yet been baptized, he or she is still assured of eternal life.
EXAMPLE: Luke 23:40-43; The thief on the cross
next to Jesus believed and was not baptized,
yet Jesus assured him he would be in heaven.
B. However,
baptism is necessary if one wants to be an obedient disciple of Jesus.
He commanded it, His apostles taught it,
and His church has sought to practice it.
C. Baptism
symbolizes what has already happened in your life.
1.) Romans 6:1-6 describes being baptized into
Christ's death and resurrection.
2.) Baptism by immersion in water symbolizes our
burial (being covered over with water) and our
resurrection (being raised up out of the water)
with Christ.
NOTE: The Greek term (baptizo) literally means
"to immerse, to cover over completely."
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