Baptism
is the door to life and to the kingdom of God. Baptism in Christian churches,
the universal rite of initiation, performed with water, usually in the name
of the Trinity or in the name of Christ. Orthodox and Baptist churches require
baptism by total immersion. In other churches, pouring and sprinkling are more
common. Most churches regard baptism as a sacrament, or sign of grace; some
regard it simply as an ordinance, or rite, commanded by Christ. Therefore,
Baptism is the sacrament of faith by which we, enlightened by the Spirit's
grace, respond to the Gospel of Christ.
Scriptural Basis
Jesus was baptized
by John at the beginning of his public ministry. Although it is uncertain
that Jesus himself baptized, the risen Christ commanded his disciples to preach
to and baptize the nations as the sign of God's coming rule. Thus, from the
outset, baptism became the Christian rite of initiation.
Purpose and Symbols
The
purpose of this sacrament is to purify your soul and to destroy all evil.
That is one of the main reasons why water is used for a symbol. Water is both
destructive and creative which matches baptism. Water was used as a symbol
of purification in many religions at a very early date. Other symbols of baptism
include oil, a white cloth, and a candle.
People able to receive Baptism
Infants
were probably baptized in the early church. Baptism was often postponed as
long as possible. Between the 4th and 6th centuries, however, infant baptism
began to be required. Now almost anyone can receive this sacrament old or
young depending on what religion you are. The church believes that baptismal
celebration should be:
a) Made as ...