A reason Baptists often use the term “ordinance” when referring to baptism is because Jesus ordered his disciples to baptize persons in his name. Person, Place, Timing, and Setting for Baptisms The Baptist concept of the priesthood of all believers indicates that the local congregation can authorize any believer priest to perform baptisms, not just a pastor or someone who is ordained. In most Baptist churches, the actual practice is for the pastor or a church staff member to perform baptisms. And some Baptists believe that only those who have been “called to preach” should baptize. When possible, a public place is preferred by Baptists for baptism since baptism is a type of public profession of faith. A variety of settings have been used. In the past, most persons were baptized in rivers or lakes. Sam Houston, a mid 1800s political leader, was baptized in a creek near the Independence Baptist Church in Independence, Texas. In more recent times, churches have built baptisteries inside buildings. Many other places continue to be used, however, such as swimming pools, lakes, rivers, ponds, creeks, oceans, and even animal watering troughs. Baptists opt for no particular timing in regard to baptism except that baptism is to follow a person’s conversion. Since baptism is not essential for salvation, there is no requirement to baptize immediately upon a person’s profession of faith. Some churches baptize very soon after a public profession. Others have a practice of asking the candidate to participate in a class for new Christians before being baptized. Baptists regard baptism as a church function. Baptists consider baptism not so much as an individual act but as one involving a community of believer priests, that is, a church. In a sense, baptism symbolizes a covenant between the person being baptized and a church. Thus Baptists believe that when a person trusts in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord he or she ought to make a public profession of that faith and be baptized into the fellowship of a church. Baptists sometimes refer to baptism as the “door to church membership.” Conclusion Baptists, believing strongly in religious freedom, respect the right of others to baptize in whatever way they choose. Similarly, Baptists want to exercise our right to express our convictions. Baptists in the past endured terrible persecution for their commitment to believer’s baptism. Surely Baptists of today will hold fast to believer’s baptism, never taking it lightly, and will make every effort to assure that future generations understand its vast significance. For further information, see cbhh.dbu.edu
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