Some of us don't know what the Bible teaches about baptism. Do I have to get baptized to go to heaven? What way should it be done: sprinkling, pouring or immersion? Are Holy Spirit baptism and water baptism both allowed? Can I scripturally have my infant child christianed?
'God is not a God of confusion.' (1 Corinthians 14:33) He never gave us this surplus of ideas to believe. He expects us to rightly divide his Word (2 Timothy 2:15). In fact, when the Bible covers any subject dealing with man's obedience to the will of God, it does so with simplicity. Since we were given only one baptism, there should be no confusion.
How should scriptural baptism be performed: pouring, sprinkling or immersion? Only immersion, or burial in water, fulfills the requirements given in the Bible (Romans 6:3-5). Man has never been given the authority to change the ordinance of baptism. Therefore, no person who has been baptized by sprinkling or pouring has obeyed the New Testament command for baptism. The only permissive way to perform baptism is immersion.
Are Holy Spirit baptism and water baptism both in effect today? Holy Spirit baptism was given only as a means to spread the gospel at its beginning so the receivers would have proof they were acting on behalf of God . . before the Holy Bible came into being. We now have the Holy Bible and are not in need of miracles. Since we have God's perfect word, water baptism is the only means in effect today.
Is it scriptural to baptize an infant? No! Only those who have reached the age of accountability should be baptized. Remember the requirements for being saved? Hear . . Believe . . Repent . . Confess . . Be baptized . . How can an infant believe when he is too young to understand. Faith, or belief, precedes baptism.
history of Sugar Creek Church of Christ?
What is the Church of Christ?
A Study of How the Church Began
What Must I Do to be Saved?
Does Every Person Have a Right to His Own Belief?