THE BASICS ABOUT BAPTISM
by Pastor Bruce Crabtree

1. WHAT IS BAPTISM?
It is an ordinance of God (one of only two, the Lord's supper being the other) given for a confession of faith and a symbol of salvation through the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ (Mark 16:16; Colossians 2:12; Romans 6:3).


2. WHO IS TO BE BAPTIZED?
Not infants and not unbelievers. Believers only should be baptized; all those who believe with all their heart that "Jesus Christ is the Son of God" should not be hindered (Acts 8:26-38).


3. WHY SHOULD ALL BELIEVERS BE BAPTIZED?
Primarily because Christ commands it! It is not optional but simply a matter of obedience to our Lord. Consequently, it is also encouraging to the new believer who is being baptized and edifying to the rest of the church (Matthew 7:21-23; Matthew 10:32-33; Romans 10:9-10).


4. WHEN SHOULD BELIEVERS BE BAPTIZED?
A very singular answer here—immediately! Upon bowing in faith to the Lordship of Christ (Acts 2:38-41; Acts 9:18; Acts 16:31).


5. HOW SHOULD BELIEVERS BE BAPTIZED?
The word "baptize" is not a complicated word; it means "to dip or plunge into", thus, immersion is the ONLY mode of baptism. Also, this was the method used by our Lord Himself and the Apostles.