Baptism and Being Born Again: A Comprehensive Guide
The age-old question: is a person considered born again if they are not baptized in water? Understanding this topic requires a thorough examination of biblical teachings and the context in which they are presented.
The Concept of Being Born Again
The term 'born again' is often associated with baptism, but the Bible does not explicitly require water baptism as the sole means of becoming born again. Instead, Jesus emphasizes the importance of making a decision for Him and believing with all one's heart.
Decision Over Baptism
John 3:3 states, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.' Here, 'born again' refers to a spiritual rebirth through faith, not just physical baptism. Acts 8:37 supports this understanding, where the text says 'If thou believest with all thine heart thou mayest.' This verse suggests that believing is a prerequisite, not merely the act of baptism.
The Role of Baptism
However, baptism does serve as a visible declaration of faith and is often referred to as following the decision. Acts 8:38 mentions, 'And he baptized him,’ indicating that baptism does follow the decision to believe. This scripture supports the idea that baptism is an outward sign of an inward transformation.
The Accusation of Charlatans
A claim that one can be made 'born again' without baptism is a misconception. Misleading individuals about the true path to salvation can lead to spiritual confusion. Such teachings depart from biblical principles and may mislead people. The NIV version of Acts 8:37 is often omitted, which aligns with Satan's strategy to confuse the faithful and omit verses from the scripture. Revelation 22:19 instructs, 'If anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his share in the tree of life and in the holy city, which are described in this book.' Therefore, any manipulation of scripture should be avoided.
The Understanding of Yeshua's Teachings
To truly be born again, one must have a deep understanding of Yeshua’s teachings. This spiritual rebirth goes beyond mere intellectual acceptance and involves a profound personal experience. Pastors, while influential, may not have the full knowledge or ability to guide individuals through this process. Faith in Jesus for salvation is a personal journey, one that each individual must experience on their own. It is acknowledged that this knowledge and understanding can be challenging to achieve, but it is possible with the effort and determination.
Children and Fetus in Salvation
Under the age of accountability, every child or fetus on Earth is considered a 'child of God' in the plan of salvation. Therefore, baptism is not required for them. The presence and protection of God are extended to all, regardless of age or condition. Under such circumstances, 'abundant strinkling' (a term might be a misspelling, possibly meant to be 'anointing') could be performed with the permission of two bishops when proper lifting equipment cannot be found or paid for. This is a practical solution in specific situations.
Conclusion
The path to being born again is a journey of faith, belief, and spiritual rebirth. While baptism is important as a symbol of this transformation, it is not the sole measure of being born again. It is essential to base one's understanding on biblical teachings, such as those found in John, Acts, and Revelation. Let us continue to seek a deeper understanding of Yeshua's messages and find the path that resonates with our hearts and beliefs.