E 1.5.1 : Adult Christian Immersion Water Baptism in the History of the Church
The Biblical truth about ’Adult Christian Immersion Water baptism’ has been a subject of controversy all through the history of the Church. This type of controversy is found in Churches, which do not totally rely on the Word of God and which do not desire the Works of the Holy Spirit, but limit the Works of the Holy Spirit. However, this controversy did not seem to exist in the early Apostolic Churches.
Satan confuses Biblical doctrines on all Baptisms. This is because, each Baptism elevates the believer to a new Spiritual dimension. Each Baptism, when received by the believer, brings about the Spiritual growth desired by God.
Therefore, whatever denomination you may belong to, it would be wise to accept the Biblical Truths and teachings based on the Word of God. Do not make the Word of God ineffective by Church traditions and family traditions.
The basis of our faith must be the Word of God! All other bases cannot sustain our faith.
Various Baptisms are mentioned in the Bible. At the mention of ‘Baptism’, most people assume that it should denote ‘Water Baptism’ only.
In Hebrews 6:1-2, Paul refers to ‘Baptisms’ in plural. Therefore, to have a more detailed picture about the different baptisms mentioned in the Bible, please read E15u – Various Baptisms in the Bible.
We counsel every believer to receive the following three important Baptisms mentioned in the New Testament.
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Adult Christian Immersion Water Baptism
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Holy Spirit Baptism ( In the Bible, Holy Spirit Baptism has been promised to every believer ). Do not confuse Holy Spirit Baptism with Gifts of the Spirit, Anointing of the Spirit, Fruit of the Spirit, Work of the Holy Spirit in Salvation, Deliverance and any such other works of the Holy Spirit, and shun Holy Spirit Baptism.
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Becoming Born-again ( Being born of the Water and the Spirit, Washing of re-birth, Born of the Word, through Renewal by the Holy Spirit ) = Being baptized into one Body ( the Invisible Church of Saints / the Body of Christ )
Let us have the desire to have the approval of God in whatever we do. Let our aim be to do the Will of God and please Him always, rather than resolutely stick to our denominational and family traditions.