Romans
6:4-5 reads "Therefore we are buried with him by
baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up
from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we
also should walk in newness of life. For if we have
been planted together in the likeness of his death,
we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection."
Baptism is a picture of what has happened in someones
life, that they are putting the old them to death by
entering into the water and by rising to a new life
with Christ as they come out. The body of sin is destroyed
and have we have been freed from sin. Now we choose
to live with Christ and not serve sin.
Repentance
identifies us with the death of Christ and baptism identifies
us with His burial. Coming forth from the watery grave
of baptism and receiving new life in the Holy Spirit
identifies with his resurrection. To accomplish this,
full immersion is necessary. It is the method used by
the apostles and it is the method we use today. Jesus
Himself was baptised even though he was without sin.
"Then
Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every
one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission
of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost."
(Acts 2:38) Peter the Apostle gave us the instruction
for baptism. The church is "built upon the foundation
of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being
the chief corner stone" (Ephesians 2:20). As a
religious body, we must maintain the high standards
of the Christian faith, in doctrine and in manner of
life, which the apostles set.
If
you are ready for this step of obedience, then an opportunity
is always just around the corner. First Apostolic Church
of Sheldon can conduct a baptism in a church meeting
at almost any stage. Simply contact
us if you wish to be baptized, and we'll
organize a date, time and location to suit you.
