What We Believe about Baptism
Baptism is one of two sacraments accepted by the
Christian Reformed Church because it was commanded and instituted by
Christ himself (Matt. 28:18-20). In the Reformed confessions and
theological writings about baptism, as well as in contemporary
ecumenical documents, the following themes are prominent:
a. Baptism means participation in Christ's death and
resurrection.
b. Baptism involves conversion, pardoning, & cleansing from sin.
c. Baptism signifies anointing by and life with the Spirit.
d. Baptism is a symbol of incorporation into the body of Christ.
e. Baptism is a sign of the covenant and kingdom of God.
We believe that children of Christian parents are
included in God's plan (covenant) of salvation. Therefore, infant
baptism could more accurately be called the baptism of children of
Christian parents. Baptism is a sign of God's promise and a child
baptized as an infant still needs to make a commitment at the point of
belief. We also baptize believing adults who were not baptized as
children.
To more fully understand the biblical position taken
on this doctrinal issue, read the two sermons linked below from Rev.
David Feddes, English radio minister with The Back To God Hour:
