But perhaps we are not as clear on the issue as we think. Based on this and other passages, Southern Baptist scholars have strongly held that baptism is a public expression of an inward reality of having been unified with Christ. It is through the work of the Holy Spirit that the Church becomes His Body, a representation of Christ Himself on earth today. Thus we refer to Baptism and the Lord's Supper as ordinances. Revs. Sometimes people assume when they see Westboro Baptist . Southern Baptists' view of biblical baptism entails a profession of faith and full immersion in water in the name of the Trinity. May learn to We are Everyone involved rejoices in the baptism of the participant. out of your glorious riches, you may strengthen this child with your Spirit, so that Christ may The advantage to Southern Baptists are the Protestant version of the Roman Catholic Church, in the sense that they invested in institutions and commissions. He said it twice. 4 0 obj eager to share their joy with you all and look forward to your ongoing presence in SBC LIFE asked Dr. Tom Elliff, past president of the Southern Baptist Convention and current senior vice president for Spiritual Nurture and Church Relations with the SBC International Mission Board, to address this foundational Baptist distinctive and provide a Bible-based treatment of the subject. B aptism is a Christian religious rite that symbolizes purification, regeneration, repentance, the forgiveness of sins, and a person's choice to adopt Christian faith and values. He was the Passover Lamb who was sacrificed to avert the messenger of death so that we might have life. 1Co 11:28-32. With this task finished, be sure you visit the this ceremony, it is traditional for several simple questions to be asked: First, as sponsors are you people of Faith? well aware of the responsibility that falls on their shoulders. , I hereby baptize you into this loving community. express our great happiness for the arrival of in God's light. This means, of course, that we hold to a high view of Scripture, affirming its inspiration, inerrancy, infallibility, authority, and sufficiency. By all rights, if any evangelicals should understand the doctrine and practice of baptism, it should be Southern Baptists. d. Fourth, Jesus said, "Do this in remembrance of me." I now bestow upon you, , a certificate commemorating this, the day of your baptism. Will you do your best to provide a home where faith and spirituality are part of the nurturing of We also gather today to name this child in recognition of the Buddhist tradition. Top scholars at prominent Baptist colleges and seminaries tell the stories of the beginnings, growth, and influence of the Baptist Church in Europe and North America, and discuss the current status of the central doctrines of the Baptist faithsuch as strong adherence to . Children's Ministries ensembles, and a handbell choir. from "Three Changes in This would be someone who has already experienced the grace of God unto salvation and now desires to make that a matter of open confession (See Acts 8:36-38; 10:47-48). with holy water). Will you, as parents, endeavor to raise in such a way that will From what cause the rite of baptism first proceeded is not expressed formally in the scripture, but it may be probably thought to be an imitation of the law of Moses concerning leprosy, wherein the leprous man was commanded to be kept out of the camp of Israel for a certain time, after which time being judged by the priest to be clean, he was admitted into the camp after a solemn washing. A little background here, I was raised Catholic; my husband, Southern Baptist. His treatment is offered with full recognition of the autonomy of each and every Southern Baptist church; it is presented as descriptive rather than prescriptive. Southern Baptists have also had a long history of practicing baptism by immersion. But, we should not abstain from the Supper. If a local church does not feel that a candidate's beliefs are in concert with its own, it should resolve that issue before granting participation. John wrote his Gospel that we might believe, and that by believing we might have life (John 20:31). We also gather today to name this child in recognition of the Jewish tradition. When he poured out his blood, it was the sacrificial death which initiated a new covenant - a new relationship between us and the Creator God. caring for , and helping to guide through the complicated journey your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Matt 26:27; Mark 14:23; Luke 22:17, 19; 1 Cor 11:24); 4. the Lord's Supper (1 Cor 11:20); and 5. the Lord's table (1 Cor 10:20). Eucharist (from the Greek word for giving thanks, cf. (To the parentssponsors) - You are presenting for Baptism. this is that when is older and decides to move closer to a faith community, will be able to present as a baptized person. If our behavior is contrary to our confession, we are lying. What is it about this event that makes it one of the most memorable experiences in the life of the believer? May 14, 2014. lose sight of your roots. May God the Father of all bless these parents (and godparents/supportive friends and family) and In the early years of Christian history the term sacrament was often employed to describe the practices of baptism and the Lord's Supper. (Both parents reply with full name of child). God had made a covenant with his people at Mount Sinai when he brought them out of Egypt. By eating the bread and drinking the cup, we are identifying with Jesus Christ as Lord. Baptists, on the other hand, believe the practice is rooted in Jesus' own baptism story . child baptism, a more contemporary adult baptism, or even an interfaith ceremony, the generator will The bread represents the death of Jesus for his people. May you We receive saving grace by faith, by putting our trust in Jesus Christ. I will now ask the parentssponsors keeper of all that is good in the world. He will reward the righteous and punish the wicked. When King David says, "The Lord is my Shepherd," he is using a figure of speech, a metaphor. Lord, strengthen with your heavenly grace, so that may As a minister, it is a good idea to keep records for baptisms you have performed, including the dates and the names of participants. this child? While it is personal, it is not private. So be it. An ordinance is a command which our Lord has directed us to obey. But overall, the denomination experienced another year of decline . comes to your everlasting kingdom. Learn More Fueling the Great Commission Since our inception, we have always had one mission fulfilling the Great Commission. When an evangelistic campaign is planned, necessitating, perhaps, the calling in of an evangelist to conduct the meetings, the question of who shall baptize the new converts is often quite perplexing. This belief that grace is imparted to the subject of baptism is why it is called a sacrament. you are baptized with water a symbol of the life within you and in the world around you. The words "this is my body" and "this is my blood" are to be understood figuratively. Thus, in the understanding of church authority that unfolds for us in the New Testament, Peter could ask of the representatives of the Jerusalem church who apparently accompanied him to the house of Cornelius the Centurion, "Why should these not be baptized seeing they have received the Spirit as did we on the day of Pentecost?" In addition, a lamb was slaughtered to avert the angel of death. May you ever know loving hands around you, and never (parents may instead like to choose today we officially welcome you. Baptism symbolizes the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus that has made possible our salvation. Grant that they may receive the fullness of your grace and the washing away of all their sins, for without these Do you the witnesses give your love and support to , wishing them all blessings this day? We eat bread and drink wine as a reminder, not as the literal or real thing. Phil and Jan Butin 479-442-4411 Several years ago I was a guest preacher to a congregation of over two thousand people in just such a setting. It was the manner of the disciples' baptism (John 3:22-23). It is a testimony to his faith in the final resurrection of the dead. In general, however, churches will recognize the baptism certificate. Keep in mind, too, that as they grow and learn, role as a member of the church will be Southern Baptist churches reported 246,442 baptisms last year, the smallest number since 218,223 in 1944. respond to several customary questions. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. a reader), May you always do for others, and let others do for you, May you build a ladder to the stars and climb on every rung, May you always know the truth, and see the light that's surrounding you, May you always be courageous, stand upright and be strong, May your hands always be busy, and may your feet always be swift, May you have a strong foundation when the winds of change shift, May your heart always be joyful, and may your song always be sung. "There Rites and Ceremonies. The issues surrounding the ordinances, particularly baptism, are not new. Together, we give thanks and If you want the baptism to meet the requirements for as many churches as possible, it must have the following three features: You must have the intention of performing a valid baptism. When he returns, he will judge the earth. At this time, I will invite to the stage to share a few thoughts. These two ordinances are pictures of past, present, and future realities associated with our faith in Christ, His atoning work, resurrection, and promised return. to become ordained if you have not done so already. He would be their God, and they would be his people. FIRST-PERSON: What's the Big Deal About Baptism? It is to be built upon Him. Therefore we have been buried with him through baptism into death, in order that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.". "Records reveal that evangelism has its hardest time during a war period," according to the SBC annual in 1945. know your goodness all days. Baptism is even referred to by many among us as a believer's first step in obedience to the Lordship of Christ. We look forward to hearing from you soon. It is interesting that so much attention is currently focused on the issue of what some have called "re-baptism." As Southern Baptists we have historically rejected any notion of sacramental grace in baptism as this idea runs counter to the clear doctrine of salvation in Christ alone, by grace alone, through faith alone. ", James They understand the tremendous bridge they are about to cross. Read through the Baptism Script (below) to make sure the baptism event is professional, thought through and worth the time of the family and friends that will attended Baptism Example Script Welcome. The proper mode. It would have required a clear explanation if the Lord's Supper was to be taken literally. What Does The Baptist Faith and Message Say About Baptism? Although by definition the Exodus was a non-repeatable event, its significance was preserved for future generations of Israelites by the institution of the ceremony of the Feast of Passover (Exod 12:24-27), celebrated every year at the Spring Equinox. At the close of the preaching service the pastor announced that the church would then observe the Lord's Table. The word itself is a transliteration of the Greek word baptizo, which means to immerse or plunge into. Let's start things off by opening in prayer. For example, if children are playing church or if you perform a baptism as part of a play, or you are horsing around in a swimming pool, it is not a valid baptism. 5. The most substantive source regarding the significance of baptism comes from Jesus himself - "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit" (Matt 28:20). on this special day to take part in baptism ceremony. Our doctrine is not born out of human reason, which can often seem so wise one moment and so foolish the next. "Therefore, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner, shall be guilty of the body and the blood of the Lord. thought to this decision, and is truly ready to take this big step. water). This traditional wedding script includes a moving Invocation, opening and closing prayers, the perfect wording for a sweet ring and vow exchange, and thoughtful scripture readings from The Gospel of John and The Book of Genesis (John 15:9-12 and Genesis 2:24). blessing on them. The most convincing teaching is that of Romans 6:3-4 and Colossians 2:12, where the symbolism of the death, burial and resurrection of Christ clearly points to submersion and emersion. May your step be steady and your arm be strong. Introduction. Jesus' disciples were inclined to Similarly, "like practice, or order" refers to our belief that according to Scripture, salvation precedes baptism (Matthew 28:18-19) and baptism precedes both the consequent membership in a local fellowship (Colossians 2:11-12) and the observance of the Lord's Supper (1 Corinthians 10:16-17). I now bless this child, whose name will be. Most Southern Baptist churches and each of our agencies use "like faith and practice" (or, "like faith and order") as the litmus test for fellowship, membership, and service. With that announcement, over one thousand people promptly stood and walked away! Commemoration (Do this in remembrance of me): Some Christians believe that when the minister or priest pronounces the words, "This is my body" and "This is my blood," the bread actually becomes the literal body of Christ, and the wine actually becomes the literal blood of Christ. However, the Apostle Paul provides the church with much additional insight into the importance and meaning of baptism. These designations include: 1. breaking of bread (Acts 2:42; 20:7; 1 Cor 10:16); 2. communion (1 Cor 10:16); 3. On the night Jesus was arrested and betrayed by one of his close followers to the Jewish and Roman authorities, he broke bread. c. Third, the festivals in the pagan religions at this time were also symbolic. With each telling, it changes.". As we consider Article 7 on the Lord's Supper, we do well to begin by asking what is an ordinance? Will you do your best to provide support to in their faith and spiritual May you seek to learn, may you learn to live. The death of Jesus initiates a new covenant by a better sacrifice - one that does not need to be repeated. Minister: I would now like to offer a reading. Southern Baptists believe that the Bible is the word of God and contains no errors. All Rights Reserved. After completing the process, you'll be able to download your sample baptism ceremony script for Take the Lord's Supper reverently and with no unconfessed sin in your life. In the Jewish Passover feast, bread was eaten that was made without yeast. Alternative: you are baptized in the name of the God and in the spirit of Summary. has been invited to share their joy on this wonderful occasion. My name is , and I am overjoyed to be with you for this special day as After explaining that true Christian baptism was different than "John's baptism" (which was by immersion but for repentance and looking toward Christ's coming), they were subsequently baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus." May The cup represents the fact that Jesus died to pay the penalty due unto us for our sins and that through trust in him and in his death for us, we are forgiven and completely pardoned. We will welcome into our hearts and lives and bless with a name of own. community. this child? Preaching for a Response: The Power of Prayer on Baptism Sunday. b. As he did so, he turned the symbolism of the meal in a new direction. With his/her heart and mind For several years, membership in Southern Baptist churches has been in decline. By Carol Pipes. Biblical Literalism. and so they turned the children away. love, may know the love of God that surpasses all knowledge, so that he may be filled to the Eternal Father, we thank you for the rich variety of the families you have created for us, and Here is where the participant is either dunked under water or water is poured or sprinkled on his or her head. It had been made in haste because they were leaving Egypt in a hurry. will always find something new to laugh at or admire. I will now ask the parents to present to be baptized. Southern Baptists put hopes in 'Baptism Sunday' amid plummeting baptism numbers Reported baptisms declined in eight of the last 10 years and dropped by more than 100,000 since 2009, according. Followers of Christ have pondered questions like these for generations. We will welcome into our hearts and lives and bless with a name of During There was only one baptism for every 48 Southern Baptists in the country in 2010. ", The Lord's SupperBaptist Faith & Message, Article 7bby Peter Gentry Associate Professor of Old Testament Interpretation. counsel to the best of your ability? Baptism is the sign and seal of God's promises to this covenant people. And, by the authority vested in me by the Universal Life Church, I hereby baptize you in the name of Now, if you will, kindly present for baptism. Even if this were the only instruction regarding baptism, it would be more than adequate for our faithful practice of this rite. , may you come to know God within your heart and throughout your life express your Baptism symbolizes a believer's union with Christ Baptists believe that those who have not been immersed in water as believers to symbolize their union with Christ by faith have not been baptized. give it power, and so today we shall give this child a gift. Do you acknowledge this day that God's love is already at work inside this Child? To call a thing by name is to Average worship attendance remained relatively stable at 5.2 . They had not been faithful to the agreement; they had not followed God's standards for the relationship. Lord, our merciful God, you have promised in Christ to be our God and the God and Father of our children. should be an 'Abstract of Principles', or careful statement of theological It does not affect or secure our salvation. As Paul said, we are all like different parts of a body, and it is when we are "fitly joined together" that we experience increase in the church (Ephesians 4:16). This covenant relationship, initiated by sacrifice, had been broken by the people. Southern Baptist congregations saw a rebound in the number of baptisms and an increase of $304 million in overall giving in 2021, both hopeful signs congregations are recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. If we don't examine our lives, acknowledge our sins and turn from them, we will be disciplined by the Lord. 1045 script B-1 rev. Do each of you affirm that is loved by those around him/her and has the full Ordinances are symbolic acts which set forth primary facts of the Christian faith and are obligatory for all who believe in Jesus Christ. While it is personal, it is not private. (The officiant now prepares to mark the childs forehead with water). (28) But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of [that] bread, and drink of [that] cup. Thus Paul can write that an individual should "examine himself" on the occasion of "coming together" with the church to the Lord's Table (See 1 Corinthians 11:23-31). My pastor friend, a victim of persecution himself, then explained matter of factly that once a person believed in Christ, the next act of obedience was baptism. The bishop, when present, is the celebrant; and is expected to preach the Word and preside at Baptism and the Eucharist. At the beginning of the baptism service, the pastor will say a devotional word about baptism. Such a public exposure of faith had already led to the death of several and could easily cost the lives of even more. The loss of 288,000 church members last year brings total SBC membership to 14.5 million, down from its peak of 16.3 million in 2006. To call a thing by name is to give it power, and so today we shall give this child a gift. The proper understanding. belief, which every professor in such an institution must sign when that follow. We discover that the ordinances are exercised under the authority of the local church, given as a means of insuring accountability, enabling discipline, and protecting doctrinal integrity.