Notes & Quotes

The Ordinance of Baptism

Haddon A. Haynes

In this study on Baptism we will address six basic questions.  They are as follows:

1. Who should be baptized?
2. Why be baptized?
3. What is the meaning of baptism?
4. What is the mode?
5. When should one be baptized?
6. How important is baptism?

Many people wouldn't even think twice about joining a church. Why should you? Is it biblical?  Is it necessary?

We believe there are good, Biblical reasons behind church membership.

Jesus said a good deal about Satan:  He called him

• "the enemy", Matthew 13:39.
• "The evil one", Matthew 13:38
• "The prince of this world", John 12:31; 14:30
• "A liar", and "the father of lies", John 8:44.
• "A murderer", John 8:44.

He said that he "saw him fallen from heaven", Luke 10:18.

That he has a "kingdom", Matthew 12:26.

That "evil men are his sons", Matthew 13:38.

That he "sowed tares among the wheat", Matthew 13:38,39.

God's Word promises us that we will never face a temptation for which he does not provide an exit, an escape route, "so that (we) can stand up under it" (1Corinthians 10:13).

Now this is not a promise we can apply passively.  It's a promise of power to escape and overcome any temptation, but we still have to look for the exit.  We need to deal decisively with temptation.  I find it helpful to have five words in mind as I think about tackling temptation.

You've heard the story a thousand times - or maybe you've lived it. A couple begins attending a local church. They enjoy the music, and like the sermons just fine. After about a year or so the pastor, or perhaps an elder, approaches them about formalizing their affiliation with the church in membership. But they either politely decline or become squeamishly uncomfortable, or maybe even take offense.

"The angel went to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you." Luke 1:28

J. C. Ryle: We should notice, in the second place, the high privilege of the Virgin Mary. The language which the angel Gabriel addresses to her is very remarkable. He calls her "highly favored." He tells her that "the Lord is with her." He says to her, "Blessed are you among women."