Baptism, Part 1

(Plain Text Version)

We are very familiar with the natural part of our life.  This life can last for a short time or a longer time.  The longer we live, the closer we are to the end of our earthly life.  We may be fortunate to live for 80 or 90 years.  It is rare to exceed 100 years. 

In addition to our natural life, God offers us a new life which will never end.  In this life we are freed from the worst consequence of Adam’s sin, namely the loss of Heaven.  To spend eternity with God is called “life”.  Failing to live and die in God’s friendship is called “death.”   

Our Spiritual Life Begins with Baptism

In His conversation with Nicodemus, our Savior has made it clear that we must be baptized if we want to be saved:

Amen, amen, I say to thee, unless a man be born again of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. (John 3:5)

Baptism is our opportunity to get to Heaven.  It is the only opportunity to get to Heaven.  Without Baptism, our good deeds are of no value.  So, if you haven’t been baptized, it is time to act!

How Baptism is Performed

Water is poured on the person to be baptized, or the person is immersed in water.  At the same time, the baptizer says: “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”  Christ commanded His Apostles to use these words (See Matthew 28:19). 

In normal circumstances, Baptism is performed by a bishop, a deacon, or a priest.  In an emergency, anyone can baptize, as long as the words and the use of water are in the correct form.

The one who is baptized must make a profession of faith in all that God has revealed.  For infants and young children, the parents and godparents promise to raise the child in the Faith.

Baptism of Desire

A person preparing for Baptism, or a person who sincerely seeks to serve God, can be saved without Baptism by water.  This is called Baptism of desire.  Baptism of desire applies only to people who do not have the opportunity for Baptism by water, or do not know that it is available.

Baptism of Blood

Those who are martyred for Christ receive the benefits of Baptism as a reward.  This is called Baptism of blood.

Infants Who Die Without Baptism

We do not know how God provides for infants who die without Baptism.  We simply trust that God is generous in His care of them.

Why Do We Baptize Infants?

When Christ commanded the Apostles to baptize, He made no distinction based on age.  Baptism of infants was the practice of the early Church.  Baptism guarantees a place in Heaven for one who dies in infancy.  There is no better gift which parents can give than to provide for Baptism!

(To be continued)

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