The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum Infant Baptism Question

Janean,

I'll briefly comment on two points you made and asked questions about:

1) Rebaptism: There is a difference of opinion within the Reformed camp as to whether the Roman State Church is a true church or not. I am on the side that does not recognize Rome; it fails as to the necessary "marks" of a true Church which are: a) The preaching of the pure gospel, b) the right administration of the sacraments, and c) proper church discipline. It is my view that Rome is apostate. Thus, any baptism performed by Rome is invalid.

2) Immersion: Contrary to some of my Baptist brethren, I find no warrant in Scripture to believe that immersion is the ONLY valid mode for baptism. I do believe that it is one of three that can rightly be administered: a) Aspersion, b) Effusion, and c) Immersion. In fact, it is doubtful that immersion was practiced during the time of Christ. For a succinct article on this subject see here: The Token of the Covenant by Rev. William MacIntyre.

On a personal note, I was baptized as an infant in a very liberal Methodist church. Neither of my parents were believers. When I was converted many years later, I came under conviction as to the validity of my former baptism and chose to be rebaptized by a believing pastor and according to my own personal faith. There are those who would object for various reasons and I do respect their opinion on the matter. However, I find no solid biblical teaching that would prohibit rebaptism when one's initial baptism was pagan with respect to everything involved; church, pastor, parents, etc.

In His Grace,