Questions on Baptism
What do we believe about Baptism?
Why Should I Be Baptized?
- To follow the example set by Christ. (Mark 1:9)
- Because Christ commanded it. (Matt. 28: 19-20)
- It demonstrates that I really am a believer. (1 John 2:3)
What Is The Meaning of Baptism?
- It illustrates Christ's death, burial and resurrection. (1 Cor. 15: 3-4, Col. 2:12)
- It illustrates my new life as a Christian. (2 Cor. 5:17, Rom. 6:4, Eph. 2:8)
Why Be Baptized By Immersion?
- Because Jesus was baptized that way. (Matt. 3:16)
- Every Baptism in the Bible appears to have been immersion. (Acts 8:38-39)
- That is what the word means. The Greek word baptizo means "to immerse or dip under water".
- It best symbolizes a burial and resurrection. Historical Christian pastors and theologians agree: Martin Luther...."I would have those who are to be baptized to be entirely immersed, as the word imports and the mystery signifies." John Calvin...."The word ‘baptize' signifies to immerse. It is certain that immersion was the practice of the ancient church." John Wesley...."Buried with Him, alludes to baptizing by immersion according to the custom of the first church."
Who Should Be Baptized?
- Every person who has believed in Christ. (Acts 2:41, Acts 8:13, Acts 8:12. At West Hills it is a membership requirement to have been baptized as a believer by immersion although it is not a requirement for regular attenders.