baptism of a chaotic soul
For centuries Christian brothers and sisters have been divided on the issue of baptism. Does baptism result in salvation? Is baptism for believers or children? We may never join together in agreement on this subject but one thing is for certain.. there are many people who are in our churches who are still confused about the nature of baptism. So I will outline what I have come to believe about baptism. The Bible says that whomever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved (Acts 2:21). Notice that it doesn't say whomever is baptized will be saved. I believe that baptism is a visible sign of a sacred thing. It is an outward proclamation of what has happened on the inward.
The World Council of Churches says that Baptism is the sign of new life through Jesus Christ. It unites the one baptized with Christ and with his people. Baptism is participation in Christ’s death and resurrection; a washing away of sin; a new birth; an enlightenment by Christ; a reclothing in Christ; a renewal by the Spirit; the experience of salvation from the flood; an exodus from bondage and a liberation into a new humanity in which barriers of division whether of sex or race or social status are transcended. The images are many but the reality is one. Baptism is the outward sign of what happened inside.
The World Council of Churches says that Baptism is the sign of new life through Jesus Christ. It unites the one baptized with Christ and with his people. Baptism is participation in Christ’s death and resurrection; a washing away of sin; a new birth; an enlightenment by Christ; a reclothing in Christ; a renewal by the Spirit; the experience of salvation from the flood; an exodus from bondage and a liberation into a new humanity in which barriers of division whether of sex or race or social status are transcended. The images are many but the reality is one. Baptism is the outward sign of what happened inside.
