Contents

1. INTRODUCTION

2. Chapter 1

1. A QUESTIONING OF THE AUTHORITY OF JESUS

3. Chapter 2

1. WE WERE WARNED

4. Chapter 3

1. IT WAS OUR RESPONSIBILITY

5. Chapter 4

1. BASIC DOCTRINE IS THE ANSWER

6. Chapter 5

1. THE LAW OF THE FIRST MENTION

7. Chapter 6

1. THE FIRST STEP IN UNDERSTANDING DOCTRINE

8. Chapter 7

1. A SUPPOSED CONTROVERSY

9. Chapter 8

1. SEVEN ELEMENTS OF WATER BAPTISM

10. Chapter 9

1. A REVIVAL OF BAPTISM IS NEEDED

11. Chapter 10

1. BAPTISM IS A TRANSFER OF AUTHORITY

12. Chapter 11

1. SEVEN: GOD’S NUMBER OF PERFECTION

13. Chapter 12

1. AVOIDING DOCTRINAL PROBLEMS IN THE FUTURE

“Unto What Then Were Ye Baptized?”

T.S. Luchon B.T, Th.M.

Pastor of The Hilltop Baptist Church

A study of the Authority in Biblical Baptism

This book is copyrighted only to preserve the author’s right to his own work. Any part of this work may be used for teaching or preaching without the author’s permission. All that is asked is that proper credit be given, and that no other Bible other than the King James be used in conjunction with this work.

The only Scripture quotations used, copied and believed to be true in the English language, are taken from the Authorized King James Bible

Printed by Hilltop Publications United States of America

First Printing – 2004

Published by Hilltop Publications

280 Stone Church Road

Hunker, Pennsylvania 15639

Phone (724) 925-7100

INTRODUCTION

“And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Acts 19:1-5

The same Scriptural question, which is highlighted in bold print above, needs to be asked today concerning many born again believers in Christ. “Unto WHAT then were ye baptized?”

The answers that born again people would give to this question will also reveal the cause and effect of many false doctrines and un-Christ like practices that this world thinks are “Christian.”

The Churches of the 2000’s are changing at a fast rate. So many ministries that are called Christian Churches resemble their community and the world more than they are Christ-like in appearance. These Laodician (Revelation 3:14-19) ministries have even adjusted what they believe in order to accommodate a so-called ‘more enlightened age of believers’.

The problem with this trend is the fact that the perfectly preserved Light of the very Word of God is also being shut out of these ministries because of the uncertain shadows caused by their use of new and supposedly improved versions of the Bible.

Many of our New Testament Baptist Churches are beginning to resemble their communities instead of being what Jesus said a New Testament Church has been for 2000 years.

Just stop and think of the word “Church.” Consider what that Bible term brings to mind. If you are of the old time religion, you may see a family entering the doors of their Church together.

You see the members together anticipating the hearing of the Word of God. You hear the words of the old fashioned hymns as the congregation stands and follows the song leader in a hymnal. The preacher takes the pulpit and faces a Local Church Congregation that is ready to hear a Bible-based message from the same Bible that is held in the hands of all the people

You see people respond as their hearts are touched by the truth and the application of the Word of God. Families grow with a Church Ministry over time. You witness faithful members who become pillars of strength in that Body and by their testimony to the community in which they are an influence for righteousness.

Then we come up to the reality of 2004! Church is replaced with Television Ministries and Community Worship Services swaying to the rock beat of bass guitar and a set of drums. Emotionalism has pushed true spirituality back and is seen as narrow-minded, bigoted, and out of touch with their community and the world. Doctrine has been replaced with situational ethics. Scriptural standards of dress and appearance have given way to worldly fashion, immodesty, and in some cases, just plain ungodliness.

The Word of God has become the newest translation conceived by the mind of a textual critic and will no doubt be under revision next month. As they stand to recite a passage from the Bible of the Month Club: the scene more resembles an argument at a United Nations meeting. While under an emotional spell, empty people who want to know the truth continue to be deceived by teachers having itching ears and no respect for the Old Faith as once delivered to the saints. They are mesmerized into thinking that this is just the way it is and there is no reality or absolute truth left in this world. What they are led to feel is the basis for what they do, over faith in a perfect Word of God.

What is the cause for such contrast and difference of belief structure? Is there something that could have prevented some of this situation from getting so out of hand? Can this reverse transformation from being Christ-like to being like the world be slowed down? Can we get this situation turned back to a transformation of sinners into Christians that are not conformed to this world? I believe that God has a plan that is still in practice by many Independent Baptist Churches, and must be practiced by more believers and churches.

I understand that there are saved, born again believers in many ministries, groups and denominations who really do want to know and love God. But due to not fully understanding Baptism, many doctrinally related problems have occurred.

I firmly believe that one of the biggest contributors to this problem are Baptist Churches who have neglected their God given responsibility to uphold pure Bible Doctrine as given to the Apostles and the first New Testament Churches.

Biblically speaking, a person who is saved begins a Christian life after Scriptural Baptism by emersion in water.

It is evident by the unsure belief structure and the lifestyles of so many, that their understanding of this Doctrine and their responsibility to Baptism, are about as shallow as the water in which they were baptized.

T. S. Luchon

Chapter 1

A QUESTIONING OF THE AUTHORITY OF JESUS

In beginning this study, please consider the question concerning Authority as it was presented to the Lord Jesus in Matthew 21:23-27.

“And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority? And Jesus answered and said unto them, I also will ask you one thing, which if ye tell me, I in like wise will tell you by what authority I do these things. The baptism of John, whence was it? from heaven, or of men? And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say unto us, Why did ye not then believe him? But if we shall say, Of men; we fear the people; for all hold John as a prophet. And they answered Jesus, and said, We cannot tell. And he said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things.”

Oh don’t miss what this is saying. These men asked Jesus a two-part question: “what” and “who.” The Lord in His wisdom said: “I also will ask you one thing…” He turned their two-part question into a one-part answer that combined these two of necessity, for both the “what” and the “who” is the answer.

Jesus immediately attached His Authority to the Baptism of John the Baptist. These men did not want to acknowledge this Authority. John Baptized Jesus by God’s authority. The “what” and the “who” are a combination of authority from The Father in Heaven and the Baptism of John on Earth. Authority from Heaven and Earth (men) was the authority by which Jesus “did these things.”

If they had acknowledged both parts to their own answers concerning the authority of John, they would have been correct and would have in turn answered their own question as to the authority of Jesus with the same words!

By their reasoning, they sound like many today who see this principle, but will not openly acknowledge the power and the authority in the Doctrine of New Testament Water Baptism in the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

The purpose for which God ordained the Baptism of John was finished at the Baptism of Jesus Christ:

“…Unto what then were ye baptized?”

Chapter 2

WE WERE WARNED

Think about the following Scriptures.

Jude 3-4 “Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Acts 20:28-30 “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.”

II Timothy 4:2-4 “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

How have people who hold false doctrines “crept in” to the membership rolls of Independent Baptist Churches?

Why are there Denominations that do not baptize Scripturally, yet they call themselves “Christian” churches?

What is the cause of believers leaving Doctrinally sound Churches and joining with Ecumenical or Charismatic ministries?

Could it be that Water Baptism, the first step to being a Bible Christian, has been in some way neglected? Perhaps if we as a Church would hold to our responsibility to Baptism, and transfer that responsibility to our converts, we would see more real commitment to Christ.

We, meaning New Testament Baptist Churches, are instructed in the Scriptures to beware, to oversee, and to mark the disorderly, disobedient and the doctrinally incorrect. There will be many Baptists who will be offended by this very teaching because they will fail to see that they are a large part of this problem.

These warnings were not against Catholic, Protestant or other churches; these warnings were first spoken to OUR Churches. God warned that this would happen in OUR midst, by those who would creep into OUR congregations.

It is sad, but some of these who hold beliefs “contrary to the doctrine ye have learned…” (Romans 16:17) have been allowed entrance into our Churches by Baptism!

I understand that this is not the only cause of problems, but it is something we must consider very seriously as Independent Baptist Churches.

Chapter 3

IT WAS OUR RESPONSIBILITY

Consider this reasoning. If the leadership and members of the Churches of the Lord Jesus had been careful to admit people into the membership of those churches, with strict adherence to Biblical guidelines, do you believe that the instances of the things mentioned before could be lessened? Of course there will always be “other groups” that arise that were never part of the Lord’s Churches.

But I am speaking of the Church Jesus Christ started in Luke 6:12-16: “And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles; Simon, (whom he also named Peter,) and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew, Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called Zelotes, And Judas the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot, which also was the traitor.”

These verses give us the exact starting point of the New Testament Church of the Lord Jesus. He would then deliver to these men The Faith in the form of sound and concise Doctrine. Doctrine that is sure, settled, understandable and all linked together without contradiction or error

If we would pay attention to just two parts of this Bible Doctrine without compromise, Churches would not change over time. I believe the problem of individuals becoming part of a Church when they were not qualified to be members has caused much of this change.

Proper teaching and practice concerning Salvation by grace and an authoritative Baptism would no doubt keep Churches from being corrupted from within their own organization. When members leave doctrinally sound Churches, perhaps they would not so readily and blindly join with churches that hold false doctrine.

Understanding of doctrine begins at Salvation. I have often wondered how many lost souls are on some membership roll. This is a bad situation for any church, but what about that poor person who is still on their way to Hell? Should not the leadership of that church have been careful to question a person concerning their testimony of being born again before allowing them to be baptized into the membership?

This is where the Biblical Doctrine of Baptism must be administered properly. Neglect of this practice is where many have been allowed to “creep in unawares.”(Jude 4)

Chapter 4

BASIC DOCTRINE IS THE ANSWER

There has got to be a means of determining who can be a member of the Lord’s Churches. We as Baptists have always taught (1600 years before the Reformation) that the only two qualifications for membership in a church are Salvation by grace through faith without works and Baptism in water.

Many have added voting people into membership. A vote is fine IF the vote taken is in relation to and contingent upon their Baptism by that particular Church, or another Baptist Church of LIKE FAITH. (Not “close to” like faith.) Doctrine determines if Churches are LIKE FAITH! These days, there are even Baptist churches that are no longer Doctrinally correct!

These two basic parts of Doctrine, when applied, are sufficient to make sure people who desire to be members are worthy according to the Scriptures. We are not talking about people who understand all the Doctrine as of yet. They are not supposed to in this stage of their being joined to a Church. It is the responsibility of the leadership of that ministry to teach those converts Doctrine.

It is the responsibility of that leadership to question each prospective member as to their own testimony of how and when they were saved. It is right here that many will say: “But the Apostles Baptized immediately.” Yes they did; but the converts they dealt with seemed to have much more understanding of Baptism, then the average believer of today. One of the cases used to argue this authors point is in Acts 8:36-37. “And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” Notice the structure of doctrinal understanding in both parties as revealed in this Scripture:

Phillip was thorough in dealing with this lost soul.

The Eunuch had some understanding about baptism.

He knew that he could be “hindered” from baptism.

Phillip took authority in administering baptism as evidenced by the words: “If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest.”

It was not the eunuchs’ right to be baptized, but Phillips responsibility to administer baptism properly.

We are to be the determining factor as to a convert’s entrance into the Local Church Body at baptism. They are at that point, placing themselves under the authority of the Church that Jesus started. When these two steps: Salvation and authoritative Baptism are accomplished, a new believer now has the opportunity to learn and grow and to be a useful and productive member of their church.

Once this first willing and knowledgeable act of submitting to Biblical Baptism is done, that person is freed up to be obedient to the Word of God, to learn and to grow into a Christian. There must be the controlling force, or guideline to get converts on the right path. I believe that is one of the reasons for which God ordained Baptism.

We understand that Baptism does not wash away the condemning sins of an individual; it keeps the Lord’s Institution of the New Testament Church cleansed from people creeping in and causing a problem down the road. This truly is a basic application of this doctrine that has been neglected.

Chapter 5

THE LAW OF THE FIRST MENTION

Look at Acts 2:41-42. “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.”

This is the first mention of Baptism in the Name of the Lord Jesus in a New Testament Church. Remember, the leadership of that Church had already been baptized, instructed, ordained and empowered for this first day. The Lord’s Church was already supplied with its leadership and doctrine, and these were already filled with the Holy Spirit according to John 20:19-22.

“Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost:”

The Day of Pentecost was the first day that other members were “added” to the already existing New Testament Church. The colon after the word “baptized” in Acts 2:41 tells us that the next statement is the definition and explanation of that last phrase.

Once they gladly received the Word concerning being saved, they were baptized. It is Baptism that “added” these new converts to that first New Testament Church!

Baptism is the means by which the Holy Spirit places a saved individual into the Institution of the New Testament Church. That Church was started by and is still under the ownership of the Lord Jesus Christ! In speaking to the Local New Testament Church at Corinth, God said through Paul: “For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many.” I Corinthians 12:13-14

At our Baptism, the Holy Spirit places us into the organization that was first Baptized in the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.

That “emersion” was a one-time event that had been prophesied in Scripture. The Charismatic ministries of today pervert this Doctrine greatly. After Pentecost there are accounts of many “fillings” on the Holy Spirit for service, but the Baptism of the Holy Ghost was accomplished once at Pentecost to seal the authority of the first New Testament Church!

Those 3000 souls that were saved on that day were “added” to an already existing Church Body. Each soul saved from that day till now is born into the family of God at salvation. They are still “added” to a New Testament Baptist Church by being baptized in water. This, as in the first mention of New Testament Baptism, has never changed.

In these days when Church Members have opportunity to “change” churches, Baptism is also the only “check-point” in the life of a church in the case of a born again believer who moves to another town and desires membership in that local church body. Again it all rests on a testimony of salvation and under what doctrinal authority they were baptized. Think how simple this concept is; yet look at the problems that exist because of the lack of Biblical compliance!

Without applying this principle, anyone could be admitted into membership without having been properly baptized.

Notice this case in Acts 18:24-26: “And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.” Apollos had many other things in order, but God sheds light on one area that needed to be corrected: Baptism. Apollos got this doctrine straightened out.

Now look at Acts 19:1-5 “And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.”

Chapter 6

THE FIRST STEP IN UNDERSTANDING DOCTRINE

Did you notice how God’s leadership for the Gentile New Testament Churches used the “check-point” of Baptism in order to help these “disciples” in understanding proper doctrine concerning the Holy Ghost?

Without being Scripturally Baptized, the understanding of Bible Doctrine is limited. It is at Baptism that the gifts of the Holy Spirit are given or unlocked for the purpose of being used in and under the authority of The New Testament Church.

I Corinthians 12:7-13 “But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.”

These Scriptures are an explanation of how the Holy Spirit puts together a Local Church. Charismatic churches and their false doctrine have twisted these very Scriptures to suit their own beliefs. This may be the cause of many Baptist Churches missing the teaching in these verses.

We find more in Ephesians. “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. But ye have not so learned Christ;”

God “fitly joins” members together in that one particular body by the means of Baptism. This allows that Local Church to be able to accomplish the purpose for which Jesus started His Church. This progression is repeated at each individual New Testament Church. This has been the process even long before the Protestant groups emerged out of the Roman Catholic Church. The New Testament Churches were practicing these principles under the authority of, and in accordance with the same doctrinal standard of the first New Testament Church in Jerusalem.

It is our doctrine that determines if we are a Biblical New Testament Church or not. The first determining test after salvation is baptism in accordance to the Word of God.

Emersion in Water is the only Baptism Practiced by the New Testament Churches in the Name of the Lord Jesus.

Acts 2:38 “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 2:41 “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.”

Acts 8:36-39 “And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.”

Acts 19:3-5 “And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Note the distinction made between the two baptisms mentioned.

Romans 6:3-5 “Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 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:”

Ephesians 4:4-5 “There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism…”

Note: Unless Baptism into a Local Church is understood, this verse will not make sense.

Chapter 7

A SUPPOSED CONTROVERSY

I Corinthians 12:12-14 “For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many.”

Note: This verse must be studied with Ephesians 1:22-23

“And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.” And with Colossians 1:18 “And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.”

Notice the words “church” and “body’ are interchangeable.

How a person views the Doctrine of the “Body and Church” will be a determining factor as to their belief in Baptism. The reverse is also true. If Baptism is not important, then defining the Church as the Body, and the Body as the Church are not emphasized nor applied. This will be covered further on in this study.

The Doctrine of Water Baptism is linked to the Doctrine of the Church. Many contradictions in belief structure show up at the questioning of these two parts of the Faith.

It must be discovered from the Word of God into what a person is being Baptized. If it is an invisible Body, than the Catholics and Protestants are correct. This reveals how shallow some Baptist Churches are in their teaching of Doctrine. By their belief and practice they are siding with false doctrine. To baptize a convert and not count that soul as a member of your Church also shows a lack of understanding of how all true Doctrine is to be rightly divided. We either have “…one baptism…” according to The “…one Faith....” …or we are in error! (cf. II Timothy 2:15, Ephesians 4:5)

When an understanding of the terms Church and Body are reconciled in accordance with Baptism in water, the controversy concerning Biblical Water Baptism disappears. As a result: Church members are added to the same kind of Church Jesus started when they submit to Baptism.

Chapter 8

SEVEN ELEMENTS OF WATER BAPTISM

I believe that as a result of Independent Baptist Churches not teaching the “whole counsel” of God concerning Baptism, that people have become shallow as to their understanding and definition of Baptism in water.

The interpretations given to most Baptists concerning what Baptism means are:

A Command to be obeyed.

The first step of obedience after being born again.

Jesus was submissive to the Baptism of John.

A New Born Believer is to be willing to follow the Lord’s example in submitting to Baptism, obeying his or her “first” command.

Acts 10:48 “And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.”

A Commemoration to be observed.

A symbolic physical picture of the death, burial and resurrection of Christ.

Jesus was immersed in death so that we could live.

The Believer is immersed in water to symbolize having died to self at salvation.

Romans 6:5 “For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:”

These two elements are readily taught and expressed by Believers. It is in the following parts to New Testament Water Baptism where lack of application has caused many of our problems in Baptist Churches.

A Commitment is made.

A public testimony of what has taken place.

Jesus was publicly baptized for all to see.

The new convert makes a public profession of their faith and promise to walk in newness of life in Christ.

Romans 6:1-4 “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? 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.”

We must commit ourselves to walk as Christians in this life, and we must teach our converts more about their responsibility to Baptism.

Romans 6:6-14 “Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.”

Every saved person who submits to Biblical Baptism must take these words to heart and put the teaching to practice in their lives. As new converts are baptized, they must be instructed as to the commitment they are professing.

Baptism in the New Testament also needs to be taught to and understood by leadership in its entirety. The application of the next parts of this Doctrine would correct much falsehood concerning Baptism. Some Believers may want to reevaluate their own belief structure (or lack of structure) in light of all that Baptism means.

A Conscience is clear.

A picture symbolizing that the person being immersed has no condemning sin.

Jesus had no sin at His Baptism (or at any other time)

A Born Again Believer has been cleansed of all sin by the blood of Jesus before they are baptized.

Romans 8:1-5 “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.”

Colossians 2:12-15 “Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.”

When this is understood, the convert is set free from the guilt of the past. They are at liberty to start walking a new life in Christ. As Salvation is the starting point of Eternal life, Baptism is the beginning of a Christian walk in this life.

Many saved people never get the Doctrine of Eternal life settled. If these have not been Biblically baptized, they will not fully grasp the freedom they own in Christ.

They may feel that they have “lost” their salvation. Doubt will reign where “faith in the operation of God” should exist!

Colossians 2:12-14 “Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;”

A Cooperation with God begins.

A public testimony of submission to an Earthly Representative of the Authority of God.

Jesus was submissive to be baptized by a direct human representative of the authority of God. “There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.” John 1:6

At baptism, a saved individual is submitting to the God-given authority of a New Testament Baptist Church.

“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:” Matthew 28:19

It is at this point that many Baptists are letting the Doctrine of Baptism slip. It is the New Testament Church that was given authority to Baptize, and no other institution has the neither right nor power to administer Baptism. Not holding to this principle has proven disastrous to the cause of Christ.

Consider this. There are some who believe that an Evangelist or other individuals can baptize without being under the authority of a New Testament Church. The first Church was given the authority to baptize, not an individual in any ministry. “Go YE” (Plural) was given to that first assembly, not to just the pastor or another worker. So much for new versions of the Bible that remove “ye” (Plural) and put in “you.” (Singular)

Some do not count those whom they baptize as members of any Church, but just a number to advertise their success.

There are Churches that baptize and then vote those people into membership as if that was a third ordinance over the two Scriptural Ordinances that Jesus left us.

Many Baptist Churches want numbers so badly that they have invented a doctrine that receives members by: “Christian Experience.” This is none other than a deceitful term for what a true Baptist calls receiving members by “Alien Baptism.”

This practice shows that the leadership of that Church does not hold to the authority of a Scriptural Baptism in mode and by Doctrine. Baptism is a transfer of authority, and recognition of Who and What authority holds us accountable for not letting falsehood into the membership of the Lord’s Church!

This will also be covered later in this writing.

A Convert is added to the Church.

A placement in the Body of Christ, which is the Church.

At the age of 30, Jesus took this first step in “building His Church.”

A Believer becomes a member of that Institution by being “fitly joined together” with other members of a “particular” Church body.

Acts 2:41 “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.”

Notice that these who were saved were also “…added unto them…” upon their Baptism. A thinking person would have to conclude from the Bible that the Church already existed in Jerusalem for these to be joined to or added to the membership of that first church.

Remember, the Church actually started in Luke 6:13. “And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles;”

Here we have the actual starting point of His Church. We also are given in this verse the definition of the word Church as it is also found in the Greek word: Ecclesia. Jesus then taught these men for three years.

He even gave them the indwelling of the Holy Spirit before Pentecost in John 20:21-22 “Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost:”

This is the “assembly” to which the souls of Pentecost where added! This was that first Body of full authority from “heaven and in earth”. (Matthew 28:18)

The Body of Christ which is also the Church are also defined for us in the Scripture.

Ephesians 1:22-23 “And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.”

Colossians 1:18 “And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.”

Being that there are no contradictions in the Word of God, these two descriptive terms for the organization of the Lord’s Institution must be understood. They are interchangeable. (Matthew 16:18)

This is a bit of a mystery, but God tells us that this is so in Ephesians 5:30-33: “For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.”

Comparing Scripture with Scripture in this is not easy to understand, but it must not be wrestled with to fit our own belief. As a wife is joined to only one physical husband; so a baptized church member is joined to only one local, physical church body!

II Peter 3:16-17 “As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction. Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.”

It is clear that a saved person is to be a faithful serving member of an actual Church, a Church with a real Pastor and real Deacons. A Church where respect is given to the two Scriptural Ordinances and administered Biblically. A Church where all faithful members bring in their tithe and give offerings on the “first day of the week,” which is still the Lord’s Day.

In Christ we are joined to Him in a spiritual union. In His Church, which is His Body, we are joined to the physical aspect of His plan for all believers. His physical visible Church is to be the actual representation of Himself, i.e. His Body in a local place! It is the physical place from which the Commission to do the work of the Father is to be carried out. His Church is to remain under the same Doctrinal organization as found in the Bible. The Authority of Heaven and Earth has been transferred to us only as we serve in one of His Local Churches. It is at Baptism that this transfer takes place.

Consider this carefully. Many who do not believe in a visible Church do not baptize according to the Word of God. These have been influenced by Catholic (Which means Universal) doctrine.

Protestant Denominations carried this false doctrine with them when they “started their own” churches. If these “denominations” had understood just this one doctrine of Baptism, they would have submitted to a Scriptural Baptism, and would have received proper instruction in Doctrine.

“If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.” John 7:17

They could have submitted to the Doctrine and Authority as transferred from God’s Church, but they chose to use their own doctrine, under the authority of man only.

A Believer, who submits to the Lord’s Doctrine of Baptism in a Doctrinally Authoritative Baptist Church, is under the authority of Heaven and Earth!

“And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” Matthew 28:18-20

At Believer’s Baptism is where converts begin to walk a new life on the way to being a Christian. Baptism does not make a person a Christian as the Catholics and Protestants teach; it is the first step taken on the road to being called a Christian.

An understanding of this one Doctrine in its entirety will prove to be a great guide in the life of a believer.

If the doctrinal stand of the Church that baptizes a convert is Scripturally correct, that believer begins his new life under proper authority. That person can always reference back to solid doctrine: Doctrine that has never been revised, or changed since the completion of the Word of God when John penned the final “Amen!”

A Co-laborer is Commissioned.

A provision of Biblical Spiritual gifts to be used for the benefit of a Church to win the lost.

At His baptism Jesus Christ began His ministry at the coming of the Holy Ghost. He immediately was empowered with the spiritual gifts needed to work as a man lead by the Holy Spirit.

A saved person who is Scripturally baptized also receives the unlocking of his or her gifts that will be beneficial to the work of the Church in which they are members.

Acts 2:38 “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.”

At salvation the Holy Spirit indwells every Believer. This is the surety and the seal of the promise of Eternal life.

Ephesians 1:13 “In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise...”

Now notice verse 14. “Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.”

That “earnest” can never be removed. A person who gets saved and is never baptized has this “seal.” Those who are saved, yet are baptized unto some other doctrine, also have this “seal.” But many of them do not understand this teaching. If any person has been born again, they are “sealed unto the day of redemption.” Ephesians 4:30

The word “earnest” teaches us that a saved person who is not properly baptized will be in Heaven, but they may miss out on many blessings of God due to an unscriptural baptism.

At Baptism, the potential in the believer is unlocked to be used in the Lord’s Church Body. If Baptism is not right, there are gifts that may never be used “to profit withal.” I Corinthians 12:7

Acts 19:1-6 “ And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.”

This “gift” was valid at this time in the New Testament Church. (NOT charismatic so-called tongues) The Bible on Earth was not yet completed. God used this sign gift to help proclaim the Gospel. Now a false version of this gift is used to pervert the Gospel! And those who do so, most likely have never been Scripturally Baptized!

Chapter 9

A REVIVAL OF BAPTISM IS NEEDED

When a believer in Christ understands Bible Baptism, that individual will own and feel a sense of responsibility to the Saviour and to the Church in which they are a member.

When Salvation and Baptism are in order, the Church will function in a much smoother manner. Doctrinal understanding and the practice of Biblical Doctrine will become the norm for that ministry.

Confusion about doctrine will be greatly lessened due to the fact that the Bible will be better understood: because people who have taken the first step of obedience and submission will be sitting in a congregation.

One of the gifts of the Holy Spirit is knowledge. And not the perverted doctrine of the Charismatics: which is defined as adding their own “word of knowledge” to God’s Revelation!

The Holy Spirit is the key to the understanding of all Bible Doctrine. If this gift is not “unlocked,” doctrine will not be accepted. History has proved this many times over. Good men in Protestant Denominations who were not Baptized Scripturally could not settle on their many differences in doctrine. In particular: Eternal Security, Baptism, and the definition of the Church!

As the leadership of a Church holds to the practice of Scriptural principles concerning the doctrine of Baptism, the congregation and visitors will not be confused as to the stand and position of that Church. Logic will show how and why a Church conducts its practice of the Doctrine of The Faith. Baptism must be given its proper place in the life of our New Testament Churches.

It’s time Baptist Churches stop admitting members under Protestant, Charismatic and other un-Scriptural baptisms. It’s time we studied enough to be able to explain true Bible Doctrine without being confused by other doctrines.

Baptism has become cheapened by the practice of some Baptist Churches. The lack of understanding Bible Doctrine by the leaders and members of some churches is shameful. A revival of the use and purpose of Baptism would no doubt help!

Chapter 10

BAPTISM IS A TRANSFER OF AUTHORITY

Individuals who have been saved by grace through faith in Christ, but are baptized in ministries that do not hold to the Doctrine of the Faith once delivered to the saints, have the potential of bringing false or error tainted beliefs into a Biblical Church.

Baptism is the Scriptural means of a transfer of proper authority. The Doctrine under which the believer is baptized sets a course for the life of that individual. As the Lord Jesus Himself had to be baptized by the authority of God and man; so must every believer submit himself or herself to the authority of the New Testament Church’s Doctrine. Bible Doctrine and Authority go hand in hand.

Matthew 21:23 “And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said, By what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority?”

Mark 1:22 “And they were astonished at his doctrine: for he taught them as one that had authority, and not as the scribes.” (The only astonishment today seems to be the lack of authoritative Doctrine!)

Mark 1:27 “And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, What thing is this? what new doctrine is this? for with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him.”

Authoritative Doctrine always causes “unclean spirits” to question. People think this is some “new” doctrine. It’s the same as it was 2000 years ago, only many Pastors have not helped in the transfer of this Doctrine to the congregation over which The Holy Ghost has made them an Overseer!

I John 4:1 “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”

John 6:61-64 “When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you? What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him.”

It is the Doctrine according to Word of God alone that carries authority.

Chapter 11

SEVEN: GOD’S NUMBER OF PERFECTION

Baptism in the Word of God is a sevenfold transfer of authority. If this is true, then we must follow that progression as seen in the Bible. This will help us to see the full importance of this Doctrine of the Faith.

Follow these thoughts through with your own study of the Word of God. Look circumspectly and think on the state of so-called Christianity today. Reflect on the problems many Churches face because of doctrinally disgruntled “members.” “Rightly divide” this Doctrinal progression. Break it down in its intricate elements and watch all the parts come into view “more perfectly.”

God sends John with the Baptism of Repentance to point the way toward acceptance of Jesus Christ. He is filled with the Holy Spirit from the womb. He is Gods Spirit filled spokesman on Earth. He is Gods Earthy representative of Heavenly Authority.

“There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.” John 1:6

“And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water.” John 1:31

God sends Jesus Christ to Earth. Jesus is baptized by John. John is God’s Earthy authority. It is the Baptism of John that will identify and authenticate the earthy presence of the Messiah.

“And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost. And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God.” John 1:33-34

Jesus is baptized by John. At His Baptism, The Father identifies and authenticates the presence of the Son of God on Earth.

“And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” Matthew 3:16-17

Jesus, the God-Man, has The Holy Spirit come upon Him to remain with Him. Jesus as a Man is empowered by the Holy Spirit for His Earthly ministry.

“And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:” Matthew 3:16

“Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit…” Matthew 4:1

Note: It was at this point in time that Jesus actually began His Earthly ministry.

Jesus gives authority to those who would be the leadership in His Church. They are given the Holy Spirit before Pentecost.

This represents the Earthly Authority of Jesus bestowed upon the Leadership of the first Church. Authoritative Leadership would now be present to wait for the “next Baptism” in this progression of authority.

“Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost:” John 20:19-22

“Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen: To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.” Acts 1:2-5

Note: These verses are speaking of what would take place at Pentecost.

The Father immerses the first Church with the Baptism of the Holy Spirit on the promised Day of Pentecost. Now the Church that Jesus started in Luke 6:12-13 is empowered and authenticated as The Body of Christ on Earth by this form of Baptism.

“And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.” Luke 24:49

Note: The Authority from Earth had already been given for The Lord to start His Church. This verse is speaking of the second witness needed to authenticate the authority of His Church from Heaven. The accounts of the Baptisms of John, Jesus, and The Holy Spirit combined, were a transfer of the authority in Heaven and Earth to The Institution of His Local Church.

“And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:” Matthew 28:18-19

At the Baptism of a Believer in water by an authoritative and doctrinally sound New Testament Church, this same power is passed on to that individual by the Institution of the Local Body of Christ: which is a New Testament Baptist Church.

When a Church baptizes a convert; that Institution, under the authority of the Doctrine of Salvation by grace through faith, is stating that this soul has been saved according to proper Doctrine. The convert is also stating that they understand basic salvation and have been saved by the Lord Jesus. The Church has the authority of Heaven to Baptize. The convert gives witness to Heaven and the congregation of submitting to that authority because of salvation.

“And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Acts 19:3-5

Chapter 12

AVOIDING DOCTRINAL PROBLEMS IN THE FUTURE

Bible Doctrine was designed to be practiced in all aspects. Following this progression of authority and applying these principles will keep the Church of the Lord Jesus as pure as is humanly possible. Many good people have missed some of the blessing God has for them because of not being Baptized Scripturally.

Many Baptist Churches have robbed new converts of understanding the potential that is unlocked at Baptism.

Other organizations outside of the Doctrinal parameters of a New Testament Church have baptized in their own name and to their own doctrines.

It is no wonder that Protestantism, with its many denominations, cannot agree on what Biblical Baptism is or how it is to be administered. These ministries were started by men and under the doctrine of those men. They were never under the authority of the doctrine of the Lord Jesus. When these Denominational Ministries were founded, the Churches of the Lord Jesus were already in existence and had been operating for 1600 years. None other than Jesus Christ started a true New Testament Church. He designed the Doctrine of the Faith. He “once” delivered that Doctrine to the saints. (Jude 3)

We are to mark false doctrine and those who teach it. We are to uphold Bible Doctrine and teach converts to be responsible to practice that form of sound Doctrine. (Romans 6:17, Titus 2:1)

Sprinkling is a practice of some denominations and has not even one Bible reference to back it up.

Charismatic ministries tend to distort baptism toward the “gifts of the Spirit” (which they also distort) and neglect the six other elements of Water Baptism.

Some even go to the extreme of teaching that it is water Baptism that actually saves a soul!

Some believe, in error, that baptism is where a lost soul comes into contact with the grace of God. It is only by grace through faith in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ, without the “work” of baptism, which saves a soul.

Some do not baptize at all. Others show absolute ignorance of the Scriptures by baptizing people outside the authority of any church.

These hold that there is no “organization” that is called a church and that the church is invisible therefore any saved person can baptize.

Some believe baptism has to be administered under the authority of an ordained minister. The authority to Baptize is not in the individual; the authority was given to the institution of the first Church by the authority of God through John, The Father, Jesus Christ, and The Holy Spirit.

Isn’t it strange that this second step after salvation is the one that is the most misunderstood? If you think it through, you will see that proper Biblical Baptism is the beginning of the correct understanding of all other Bible Doctrine, and the practical application of all Doctrine.

Many souls have been truly born again and are on their way to Heaven when they die. But because of being deceived into an unscriptural, unauthorized baptism, they never develop into what God desires for that precious person.

I said deceived for a reason: No ministry, church, organization or individual has any business allowing or administering Baptism to a trusting soul if that authority does not understand what the Word of God teaches about this Doctrine. They have neither Biblical right nor authority to Baptize!

God help those who baptize in ignorance of the Word of God. Yet, ignorance is not an excuse!

For those who baptize by some other way in spite of clear Bible teaching; they will be held accountable for all the problems they have allowed by their “lightness” concerning this Doctrine, and their lack of “study to be approved” of God!

Both cases are in error and will answer to The Authority of Biblical Water Baptism: The Lord Jesus Christ.

We who are Overseers of a New Testament Baptist Church, are to be faithful stewards of the Doctrine of the Faith. We have a God given responsibility to minister to people according to the whole council of God.

As we baptize the precious souls that get saved in the future, let us first understand by what authority we were commissioned do so.

Before we Baptize any person into the membership of our particular Church Body, let’s first be sure of their understanding of how, why and if they are born again.

As we take in new members who have been saved and baptized outside of our particular Church Body’s ministry, let’s resolve to ask the question (by which we were so named Anabaptists) to every person professing salvation:

“…Unto what then were ye baptized?” Acts 19:3