Praises, Rejoices, Exaltations!!! Our daughter, Megan, was baptized this past Sunday. It was a glorious time as she announced to the world that JESUS is her LORD and SAVIOR.
According to Wikipedia, Baptism is a Christian rite of admission and adoption, almost invariably with the use of water, into Christianity. It may be performed by sprinkling or pouring water on the head, or by immersing in water either partially or completely. Some denominations can be very passionate about their beliefs in baptism especially in regards to sprinkling vs immersing of the person. A few denominations believe you are not saved until you have been baptized. I personally do not agree with this. I believe in Jesus plus nothing; which simply means Jesus saved me with his actions on the cross. It is through him that I am saved. There is nothing I can do; Jesus did it all. For me to believe that I have to be baptized to be saved would be to say that what Jesus did was not enough.
I personally do not believe there is a right or wrong answer to baptism, the most important thing is that you believe in your heart as Paul tells us in Romans 10:9-11; 9 If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved. 11 As the Scriptures tell us, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced.” I believe, Baptism is a way to show the world that you believe in Jesus and as such, I believe anyone that believes should be baptized, but that baptism is not essential to one’s salvation.
After Megan was baptized, I looked around our church wondering were missing family and friends might be. The thought hit me like a brick, why do we put so much emphasis on birthdays, family gatherings, holidays, and other such events, but put so little emphasis on baptism? I asked myself, “Ed, where do your priorities lie”? How many times had I put my own selfish needs of this world above joining in the celebration of a brother or sister in Christ declaring their life to Jesus, through baptism? I do not think I will ever view baptism the same way ever again.
Where do your priorities lie? Would you drop whatever you are doing to see a loved one be baptized as they publicly declare their life to Jesus; or would you lie about why you could not be there? The English word lie has several meanings but isn’t it ironic that a lie could result in you lying in a coffin. Is there any doubt about GOD’s views on lying; just look at the Ten commandments. From that coffin, you will be judged by GOD. Will you have Jesus as your lawyer? If you are not sure please let us tell you about the GOSPEL before it is too late. We will not lie to you about Heaven and Hell. Instead, we will lay the groundwork for your salvation.
DO YOU KNOW THE GOSPEL (Good News)?
God created us to be with Him. (Genesis 1-2)
Our sins separate us from God. (Genesis 3)
Sins cannot be removed by good deeds. (Genesis 4 – Malachi 4)
Paying the price for sin, Jesus died and rose again. (Matthew – Luke)
Everyone who trusts in Him alone has eternal life. (John)
Life with Jesus starts now and lasts forever. (Acts – Revelation)
Dear FATHER,
Thank you for sending your son Jesus to die for our sins; even though we do not deserve it. Thank you, LORD Jesus, for taking up the cross and covering our sins before the Father. Thank you, Jesus, for sending the Holy Spirit to guide us until you return. Thank you for Pastor Bob, baptizing Megan. Thank you for Megan and Brian. LORD, please look after Melinda. Hold her in your hands. Prepare her for your glory. YAHWEH, please help us to have a revival for you in this country. So many are lost and headed to Hell. Help us to help them before it is too late.
Your will be done,
In Jesus Name,
AMEN
