Bible Discussion Thread

Do I have to join a church to be baptized? I was saved when I was 10. I live in SC if anyone knows where I could be baptized. Thanks

Kristen Haney, baptism is obedience to God.

You can call and ask your local churches. They will likely encourage you to attend their church or somewhere to be part of the Christian community. Each church treats membership differently, some you never need to 'join' but just show up and you're a member. Others may have a short process to join. Hebrews 10:25

Kristin--Biblically I can't find an answer. Teaching of Gods word says Jesus was baptized by John so to follow that example can't be wrong. Baptism is a repentance of sin shown to God. It represents the crucifixion and resurrection in the tomb then arise . Any believer can baptize "in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit". No church is required. This I have been taught.

Thank you. Also, do you believe it matters what body of water your baptized in?

Kristin Haney, Emersion would be the proper way to be baptized, Jesus was baptized in the Jordan river. I have heard pastors say that sprinkling is not proper. Please also read Acts 8:36.

I looked in the Smith's Bible Dictionary and it read if you be far from a body of water you can have water dribbled over your head. Baptism is between you and God and not you and some earth person, so if the dictionary says a sprinkle is ok I am to assume this is right with God.

Let the Bible Words of God define itself, dont go to a Dictionary words of man . There is no sprinkling baptism in the Bible and not every baptism in the Bible has to do with water. The Baptism for the believer is to be full submersion as a public testimony to let others know you are submitting to God. 2 Timothy 2:15

Eric-When Christ was on the cross with two criminals on each side of Him, one did come to believe in Him as The Christ Jesus said to him " I will see you this day in Paradise". This person WAS NOT BAPTISED but was received in Paradise. No water here.