Reaffirming Your Faith: The Importance of Personal Salvation and Baptism

Salvation is a deeply personal and spiritual journey that requires a deliberate and conscious choice. For many individuals, being baptized as an infant and confirmed during their teens does not fully constitute being saturated with the principles of salvation. This article explores the necessity of rebaptism, the role of personal choice, and the biblical significance of these practices.

Understanding the Process of Salvation

Infants and young children cannot make informed decisions about their faith. In the Bible, baptism is not prescribed for infants as it is a rite that signifies a conscious and chosen belief in Jesus Christ. The Bible emphasizes the importance of being born again, which involves understanding and accepting the work of Jesus Christ as salvation.

The Concept of Being “Born Again”

John 3:3, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” This verse underscores the necessity of rebirth in the context of salvation. Being “born again” means believing in Jesus Christ and his resurrection, acknowledging his work in redeeming us from sin. It is through this belief and confession that one truly experiences salvation.

Personal Choice and True Salvation

According to the Bible, if an individual was baptized as an infant, they may have not made a conscious decision to accept Christ. True salvation requires a personal choice to believe in Jesus and his sacrifice for our sins. The scriptures provide clear guidance: Acts 2:38, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” This highlights the importance of personal repentance and the act of baptism as a representation of personal faith.

Rejecting False Doctrines and Purgatory

Some beliefs, such as the doctrine of purgatory, suggest that human actions or rituals are necessary to cleanse one's soul. However, the Bible clearly states that Jesus alone is sufficient for our salvation. Believing in purgatory implies that one doubts Jesus' work, which is a deception of the enemy and is incompatible with true Christian doctrine. 1 Timothy 6:16, “Who alone has immortality, dwelling in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see.” This verse affirms that Jesus is the only source of salvation, and no other means can be sufficient.

The Sacrament of Confirmation

For those who wish to be confirmed in the Church, the act of confirmation is a sacrament that signifies full membership and maturity in faith. Just as baptism is a pivotal moment in one's spiritual journey, confirmation represents the next step in their walk with Christ. It is a time when the individual reaffirms their commitment to their faith and is blessed by the church.

Scriptural Foundations of Baptism

The Bible provides clear guidance on the significance of baptism. Romans 6:3-5, “Or do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.” This verse illustrates that baptism symbolizes our union with Christ in his death and resurrection, marking a new beginning in our spiritual journey.

Children and Baptism

Scripture also supports the idea that children should not be baptized due to their lack of understanding. 1 Corinthians 13:11, “When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; when I became a man, I gave up childish ways.” This verse suggests that one should only be baptized when they can fully comprehend the significance of the act, typically when they reach adulthood.

Conclusion: A Call to Personal Freedom and Faith

Reaffirming one's faith through baptism is a powerful act that signifies a commitment to Jesus Christ and his message. While infant baptism may have been a tradition in the past, it is crucial for individuals to make a conscious and informed decision about their faith. True salvation is a journey of personal discovery and commitment, marked by faith, prayer, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

The key lies in:

Personal choice and conscious belief Repentance and forgiveness The symbolism of baptism as a rite of passage into new life

Only through a genuine and deliberate commitment to Christ can an individual experience true salvation.