Are Backsliders Required to be Re-baptized?

[chosenbyone]

Hello, AFF -

I've been out of pocket during the last few weeks and I've had this question daily on my mind. Now, I learned all the scriptures that support our doctrine; however, I've had trouble discounting the need of being baptized again for the remission of sins after walking away from God and being involved with horrible sin.

I backslid and came back to our merciful Savior, but I've been troubled in my spirit about the need to wash all those sins under the blood through the act of baptism. Has anyone heard of this being practice in our churches?

Any scripturally based answers that you could provide would be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

chosenbyone

[berkeley]

I do not have any scripture to offer for this answer. :)

If baptism is for the remission of sins, then NO. Baptism is not necessary the second time around. Sins can be remitted only once. Or that is what they will tell you. *shrugs*

If baptism is because of the remission of sins, yes, you CAN be baptized again. It is a public confession that you have placed your faith in Christ.

Some believe you can be baptized again to clear your conscience.
Reference:
The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:

[berkeley]

I have no real answer.

[chosenbyone]

I do not have any scripture to offer for this answer. :)

If baptism is for the remission of sins, then NO. Baptism is not necessary the second time around. Sins can be remitted only once. Or that is what they will tell you. *shrugs*

If baptism is because of the remission of sins, yes, you CAN be baptized again. It is a public confession that you have placed your faith in Christ.

Some believe you can be baptized again to clear your conscience.
Reference:
The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:

Thanks for the quick response, Berk. I've understood that there are at least two different camps which you've listed above. I have been told by more than one pastor that baptism was for the remission of our sins.

If it was just for public confession of a person's faith then in my opinion would be there wouldn't be a need to be baptized again. The reason for this belief was I should already be a walking public confession everyday with my words, deeds and most importantly His grace.

Still on the fence with this dilemma...I've spent time today wrapping up some personal legal matters, estate, so that no one would have to deal with such matters after I pass away (if that is God's will).

This is an urgent personel matter for me...anymore insight friends?

[berkeley]

Several years ago I wanted to be re-baptized. I was not. For me it was an issue of the conscience. I would have "felt" better about starting over.
If it is for conscience sake, I would tell you to go ahead with it. If it will give you more peace, it is a good thing. :)

I have been wondering where you have been.

[chosenbyone]

Several years ago I wanted to be re-baptized. I was not. For me it was an issue of the conscience. I would have "felt" better about starting over.
If it is for conscience sake, I would tell you to go ahead with it. If it will give you more peace, it is a good thing. :)

I have been wondering where you have been.

Issue of conscience? If it would have made you feel better...why didn't you pursue what your gut was telling you? Oh, well, who am I to say?

It has never been something that has robbed me of any peace; however, it has been a subject that I just can't seem to get out of my head.

If baptism was an act of obedience to God's word and I felt that God wanted me to be baptized again, who would baptize me? As far a I can gather, my church doesn't do any re-baptizing for backsliders. I just would like to have this matter resolved once and for all...

[berkeley]

Issue of conscience? If it would have made you feel better...why didn't you pursue what your gut was telling you? Oh, well, who am I to say?

It has never been something that has robbed me of any peace; however, it has been a subject that I just can't seem to get out of my head.

If baptism was an act of obedience to God's word and I felt that God wanted me to be baptized again, who would baptize me? As far a I can gather, my church doesn't do any re-baptizing for backsliders. I just would like to have this matter resolved once and for all...

I don't understand why God would want you to be re-baptized. I do understand why a person would want to be re-baptized. If you feel that He wants you to be re-baptized, do it. If I was nearby I'd re-baptize you in the bathtub.

[chosenbyone]

I don't understand why God would want you to be re-baptized. I do understand why a person would want to be re-baptized. If you feel that He wants you to be re-baptized, do it. If I was nearby I'd re-baptize you in the bathtub.


Perhaps, at this stage of my life, I just wanted to put these questions to rest. Thanks for the offer, Berk....you're a good guy.

[Rico]

Chosen, if you want to get rebaptized then take it to your pastor and discuss it with him. Tell him how you feel and hopefully he will understand and rebaptize you. I've heard of people doing this.

[berkeley]

Far from good... striving unto perfection...

[berkeley]

Chosen, if you want to get rebaptized then take it to your pastor and discuss it with him. Tell him how you feel and hopefully he will understand and rebaptize you. I've heard of people doing this.

How many times were you re-baptized?


J/K

[Rico]

How many times were you re-baptized?


J/K

Not funny. I got baptized in the titles when I was 13 and again in Jesus name when I was 26.

[chosenbyone]

Chosen, if you want to get rebaptized then take it to your pastor and discuss it with him. Tell him how you feel and hopefully he will understand and rebaptize you. I've heard of people doing this.

Rico,

I haven't been able to attend church in several weeks, but I did email my pastor and I've been waiting for a reply. I have heard from other members that the leadership in general doesn't support re-baptizing.

Regardless, of whatever life throws our way...God is still good.

chosenbyone.

[Rhoni]

Hello, AFF -

I've been out of pocket during the last few weeks and I've had this question daily on my mind. Now, I learned all the scriptures that support our doctrine; however, I've had trouble discounting the need of being baptized again for the remission of sins after walking away from God and being involved with horrible sin.

I backslid and came back to our merciful Savior, but I've been troubled in my spirit about the need to wash all those sins under the blood through the act of baptism. Has anyone heard of this being practice in our churches?

Any scripturally based answers that you could provide would be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

chosenbyone

Dear Chosen,

There is no scripture for or against re-baptism, but I will tell you of many experiences that I have had, especially within the scope of my ministry.

Many of us were raised in the church and just took it as the right thing to do when we got baptized from 5-12 years of age. Many of us have chosen, as adults, to be re-baptized full well understanding our sin nature and knowing that God is the only one who can wash us white as snow.

As for you; no person can make that decision for you. The first time you asked for forgiveness - God was there. He knows our frame and what we are made of. As far as God is concerned...your sins are gone, but if being re-baptized today knowing and understanding what a sacrifice Jesus made when he took all of our sins on to himself...then I'd say...go for it.

God won't feel any different about you but you may feel different about yourself. If you choose this route...let me know, and I will come.

Love & Blessings, Rhoni

[KwaiQ]

Hello, AFF -

I've been out of pocket during the last few weeks and I've had this question daily on my mind. Now, I learned all the scriptures that support our doctrine; however, I've had trouble discounting the need of being baptized again for the remission of sins after walking away from God and being involved with horrible sin.

I backslid and came back to our merciful Savior, but I've been troubled in my spirit about the need to wash all those sins under the blood through the act of baptism. Has anyone heard of this being practice in our churches?

Any scripturally based answers that you could provide would be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

chosenbyone

If baptism was done properly in Jesus name, then you only need to be baptized once. Baptism symbolizes our burial (Romans 6:3-5). You are only buried once if the burial was done properly. A backslider only needs to truly repent (turn around) and follow after God. Hebrews 12:14

[Barb]

If baptism was done properly in Jesus name, then you only need to be baptized once. Baptism symbolizes our burial (Romans 6:3-5). You are only buried once if the burial was done properly. A backslider only needs to truly repent (turn around) and follow after God. Hebrews 12:14
This is interesting because I was taught from as far back as I can remember that a backslider needed to speak in tongues again (pray through). If they didn't do that, they were not restored.

[Steve Epley]

NOPE.

[Sherri]

We often rebaptize people who have been away from the Lord. I think it is just signifying a fresh start and it's a public declaration of such. I don't think they "have" to be baptized again, according to Scripture, but it sure doesn't hurt them! The Bible does talk somewhere about doing your first works over.:ernie

[Barb]

NOPE.

Elder E, are you answering the rebaptized question or what I just wrote?!

[KwaiQ]

This is interesting because I was taught from as far back as I can remember that a backslider needed to speak in tongues again (pray through). If they didn't do that, they were not restored.

I agree with Brother Epley. You do not have to speak in tongues to 'prove' your living right. God knows the heart and wether your truly repentent or not. Speaking in tongues is an initial sign to the unbeliever that he has recieved the Holy Ghost. The gift of tongues and interpretation is for the edifying of the church.

[Barb]

I agree with Brother Epley. You do not have to speak in tongues to 'prove' your living right. God knows the heart and wether your truly repentent or not. Speaking in tongues is an initial sign to the unbeliever that he has recieved the Holy Ghost. The gift of tongues and interpretation is for the edifying of the church.

I'm not sayiong I agree with that...not now anyway, but it was what was taught and is still believed by many.

[KwaiQ]

but it was what was taught and is still believed by many.

I have no doubt it is taught by many.

[ManOfWord]

Hello, AFF -

I've been out of pocket during the last few weeks and I've had this question daily on my mind. Now, I learned all the scriptures that support our doctrine; however, I've had trouble discounting the need of being baptized again for the remission of sins after walking away from God and being involved with horrible sin.

I backslid and came back to our merciful Savior, but I've been troubled in my spirit about the need to wash all those sins under the blood through the act of baptism. Has anyone heard of this being practice in our churches?

Any scripturally based answers that you could provide would be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

chosenbyone


As a pastor, and being part of the UPC for 20yrs, (I have been out of the UPC for over 10yrs) I used to hold strongly to the "baptism ONLY once" idea. It was more of a sectarian stance that I held than anything else. However, having been a Sr. pastor for almost 25 yrs, I have dealt with many different kinds of situations in people's lives.

I have -re-baptized many folks. I don't preach it as a doctrine, but to the folks I have re-baptized, it has really meant something to them. For me, that is what is more important than anything.

There is no scripture to support withholding re-baptism. However, the Jewish practice of Mikveh, was a ritual cleansing that was performed many times throughout the life of the observant Jew.

If it means that much to you, and your pastor won't do it, then I would find someone who would. Remember, this is between you and the Lord. I don't counsel folks to go against their pastor, but this is not something that is contrary to scripture.

[Steve Epley]

Elder E, are you answering the rebaptized question or what I just wrote?!

Yes. You can only be born ONCE. I have on very rare occasions where someone as a child may have been baptized and was out in the world for years and did not feel comfortable I did it for conscience sake. As far as speaking in tongues again I think if folks get renewed it just happens is it a must? I don't know any passage that teaches that. But a person that has much of a prayer life from time to time will speak in tongues. I never HAVE to eat a steak again but you know what I like them so I have them more than I should.

[Brother Price]

I was rebaptized a while back. It did not help. The problem was not even with conscience, but with the condition of the mind. If a backslider somes back, and repents, they turn their mind back to where it should be. Look at Revelation, at the words of our Lord to the various churches. He told them to repent and turn. He did not say they needed to be rebaptized, though the reference to returning back to your first works can be interpreted as such by some.

Personally, rebaptism is for conscience sake. The blood, once applied, is there. We must repent and turn back. He died once for our sins, and His blood cleanses us from sin. If we confess our sins, church, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

For conscience sake, I will not go against. Mandating such is unscripturally based.

[Sister Alvear]

If someone feels to then maybe so...but in general I would say no. But I have seen my pastor rebaptize people IF they felt to be. I think if for some reason a person is not satisfied maybe they should do so...Many years ao when my mother came to the Lord she was baptized in a certain church and when she came on into more truth she felt to rebaptize. She felt that the preacher that baptized her was wrong...so there are many reasons to consider and blessed be the wise pastor that guides...

[Monkeyman]

"Can a man enter his mother's womb and be born" Again, again, again, and again....its foolish. God's grace and mercy is endless, it is sufficient to cover ALL of my sins. Just return to the cross in prayer, that is enough.

[Falla39]

Yes. You can only be born ONCE. I have on very rare occasions where someone as a child may have been baptized and was out in the world for years and did not feel comfortable I did it for conscience sake. As far as speaking in tongues again I think if folks get renewed it just happens is it a must? I don't know any passage that teaches that. But a person that has much of a prayer life from time to time will speak in tongues. I never HAVE to eat a steak again but you know what I like them so I have them more than I should.

Yes, we can only be born once but we can be re-vived or re-newed

many times! I would like to renew our marriage vows at our 50th anniv.

In a few days we will have our 48th. I married my husband as a young

person and I don't remember what all the vows were. I probably didn't

care. All I wanted to do was to spend my life with him. Basically I was

a "child". NOW I know as an adult that I still want to spend the reminder

of my life with him. If we renew our vows, I will find out what I am vowing

and do my very best to do them.

Then there is this question of being re-baptized. My grandmother and

her son, my dad, frowned somewhat upon being re-baptized as they

saw no scripture for doing so. However, Grandma was an adult and her

son, my dad was a young fourteen yr. old boy when they heard the

apostolic truth from God's Word. They wore out several Bibles the next

few years after they believed, were baptized in Jesus Name, and received

the Holy Ghost, speaking with tongues. They were very devout in their

continual searching of the scriptures. I seriously doubt they ever thought

of re-baptism due to their own devouted life to God and His Word.

I was a young girl when I was baptized and didn't receive the Holy Ghost

until I was eighteen. My two younger siblings were getting baptized and

I am sure I felt a measure of wanting to also since, and while they were being

baptized. In later years I have felt that because I was a "child" when I

was baptized, I would be willing to let Jesus know that even though I

"put Him Christ" as a child, I would love for Him know that as a mature

adult, I would be willing to take the name of JESUS with me again. Some

might not want to marry the same man or take a man's name again but

I can only speak for myself. Instead of re-marrying or re-baptism, it would

simply be, being RE-NEWED in both cases!! If we ask Him to, He will lead us

in this question and will settle it in our minds. We sometimes need to be

re-newed in the spirit of our minds.

Blessings,

Falla39

[Michlow]

Hello, AFF -

I've been out of pocket during the last few weeks and I've had this question daily on my mind. Now, I learned all the scriptures that support our doctrine; however, I've had trouble discounting the need of being baptized again for the remission of sins after walking away from God and being involved with horrible sin.

I backslid and came back to our merciful Savior, but I've been troubled in my spirit about the need to wash all those sins under the blood through the act of baptism. Has anyone heard of this being practice in our churches?

Any scripturally based answers that you could provide would be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

chosenbyone

I don't have any biblical answers for you. Personally I don't THINK that its necessary. But I personally chose to be baptized a second time.

I orginally came to an Apostolic church at the age of 18, attended maybe 3 services and decided to be baptized. I maybe attended 1 more service after I was baptized, and then did not attend church at all. I never received the Holy Ghost, and did not give my life to God.

6 Years later I started attending again, and gave my life to God. I eventually received the Holy Ghost. For almost 5 years, I struggled with feeling that I wanted to be baptized again. But the various Pastors I discussed it with, always said that it was not required.

Eventually I just decided that I WANTED to do it again, regardless of it not being necessary. I felt much better once I did. There had always been this tiny uncomfortable feeling in the back of my mind.

[Mrpapajo]

Was the prodigal son reborn when he returned home? No

He was just a person that realized he had made a mistake. He repented of that mistake and the father put the ring and robe on him that the son had squandered. There is no need to be re-baptised. One is only getting wet.
When one is born again they are a son no matter what they do.
If they live a life separated from God they are still a son, but a son that is lost. You can only receive the Holy Ghost one time. There is no such thing as praying through as taught in the UPCI.

[Esther]

Do what will give you peace.

It is not necessary. But as MOW said there is no Bible for, nor against being bapized again.

[chosenbyone]

Dear Chosen,

There is no scripture for or against re-baptism, but I will tell you of many experiences that I have had, especially within the scope of my ministry.

Many of us were raised in the church and just took it as the right thing to do when we got baptized from 5-12 years of age. Many of us have chosen, as adults, to be re-baptized full well understanding our sin nature and knowing that God is the only one who can wash us white as snow.

As for you; no person can make that decision for you. The first time you asked for forgiveness - God was there. He knows our frame and what we are made of. As far as God is concerned...your sins are gone, but if being re-baptized today knowing and understanding what a sacrifice Jesus made when he took all of our sins on to himself...then I'd say...go for it.

God won't feel any different about you but you may feel different about yourself. If you choose this route...let me know, and I will come.

Love & Blessings, Rhoni

Thank you, Rhoni and everyone. I must admit I'm even more unsure of this feeling that I can't shake... maybe it is residual guilt of my past rebellion and the consequences of my sin.

Many of you have shared similar thoughts and beliefs that I have held regarding homosexuality, which was what the Bible referred to as an abomination. I not only left the anointing of God, but was involved in unspeakable behavior against the very nature of Jesus.

I was raised and attended both UPC and Church of God (Cleveland), but mostly the COG. I had friends that lived in Houston and they invited me to hear Richard Heard speak at Christian Tabernacle back in 1981. I had already received the Holy Ghost at age 11, but even at that young age I longed for something that I wasn't seeing or feeling in the COG. That night, I knelt at the alter where a brother read Acts 2:38 and explained to me the plan of salvation. I obeyed and was baptized in Jesus Name at the age of 15.

My grandfather found out about my baptism and I was banned from being around "Jesus Only" people until his passing in 1989. At that time, I was a seaman in the Navy and I found New Life Tabernacle in Napa, CA. That was where I received the revelation of the Oneness of our God and all of His wonderfulness.

Only once did I question the need to be baptized after I received the revelation and Bro. Paul Price assured me that I was born again. After the shame I brought to Christ, my family, friends and myself, I found an alter of forgiveness and the love of our Father.

Now, I am dying. Unless, a miracle happens this year, I will go and receive my reward. I know that Jesus loves me as well as I love him with all my heart, but I even dream that I must be buried again in His name. Believe me, I've written this urge up as everything from some deep seeded guilt to medications to the actual need of those horrible sins to be once and for all remitted.

I now have been assigned a caretaker after my hospital stay and he has seen the anguish that this has caused in my life and he doesn't even know the truth...yet...

As of tonight, I still haven't heard from my pastor. If by chance that he would not baptize me is there any ministers in the Houston area that would be willing to baptize me even if you don't feel that it would be necessary? If anything else, the peace of mind that obeying what I feel in my soul would be worth everything I own.

I couldn't find where there would be a need in the scripture either for re-baptism though I have spent countless hours the last month researching. One scripture that brought more questions to me was when I read Hebrews Ch 10:26..."For if we sin willfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins".

Too may questions and not enough time. If there would be no more sacrifice for sins for someone who knew truth and walked away from God then why did God lead me back to Him?

[Sherri]

Chosen--
You are a true example of the grace of God. Thanks for sharing your story. I'm sure there are ministers in the Houston area who would baptize you, if that's what you desire. Jabo Green's staff would, I think. Or Richard Heard's staff. Maybe you don't want someone outside of UPC though; if so, I don't know the ones in UPC anymore. I'll be praying for you!

[ManOfWord]

Chosen, if you can't find anyone, I would be happy to fly there and re-baptize you at my expense! Seriously!!

[berkeley]

Chosen, if you can't find anyone, I would be happy to fly there and re-baptize you at my expense! Seriously!!

Thank you. :)

[Sherri]

Chosen, if you can't find anyone, I would be happy to fly there and re-baptize you at my expense! Seriously!!
What an awesome gesture! God bless your heart.

[chosenbyone]

Chosen--
You are a true example of the grace of God. Thanks for sharing your story. I'm sure there are ministers in the Houston area who would baptize you, if that's what you desire. Jabo Green's staff would, I think. Or Richard Heard's staff. Maybe you don't want someone outside of UPC though; it so, I don't know the ones in UPC anymore. I'll be praying for you!

Thank you, Sheri for your kind words of hope and encouragement. I've missed being able to be here on AFF and my caretaker has proven to be tough on me to get rest. Though he means well, people that I've met here have brought so much to my life this year.

I will pray if Bro. Green or Bro. Heard would be where I should go. I would like for my pastor to be the one to baptize me, but at this point if there were another Apostolic minister that would do this for me, I would humbly accept.

I'm going to have to log off in a minute, but I will look forward to reading your replies in the morning.

[Sam]

Early in my Christian life, I received teaching on a couple verses in the epistle of 1 John which apply to a Christian who sins. "If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." Those are verses 8 and 9 in the first chapter of that epistle. I had a problem because I didn't "feel" forgiven when I confessed any failure and/or sin. I was told that we walk by faith and not by feeling. God plainly promised in these verses that if we confess (admit) our sins then He would forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. This promise is based on God's faithfulness. If we believe what He said, then once we admit our failure to Him, He not only forgives but He also cleanses us from it.

[The Swordsman]

Ephesians 4:5

One Lord, one faith, one baptism,

[Sherri]

I agree that it isn't necessary for salvation, but if the guy is dying and feels like this is something God has wanted for him, then by all means, he needs to do it. I can tell you, if I were in his position, I would move heaven and earth to get to a place where they would baptize me if I felt it as strongly as he obviously does.

[MissBrattified]

I don't think its necessary, BUT if it makes someone feel better and/or feel more secure in their salvation, I see nothing wrong with it. Why let someone walk around feeling angst?

[CC1]

For the record in answer to the title of this thread I believe that only Michlow has to be rebaptized. All others are covered.

[Pressing-On]

For the record in answer to the title of this thread I believe that only Michlow has to be rebaptized. All others are covered.

:killinme:killinme:killinme

[Hoovie]

I don't think its necessary, BUT if it makes someone feel better and/or feel more secure in their salvation, I see nothing wrong with it. Why let someone walk around feeling angst?


I think this would be a good reason not to do it. I think it speaks to their insecurity and their inability to simply place all trust in the blood of Jesus.

Some have been baptised multiple times and still have the same struggles - where does it stop? They need to be taught who it is they identified with in baptism and why they can fully trust his accomplishment on the cross.

[CC1]

:killinme:killinme:killinme

One has so few pleasures in this life you have to grab them while you can. Tweaking Michlow is right up there with eating chocolate!:haloplug:lol

[jwharv]

I was baptized when I was very very young and realy didn't know what it meant. I just got baptized because the sunday school teacher basicly talked the whole class into doing it. Later when I got the Holy Ghost and realized what it was all about I had my pastor at the time rebaptize me.

My exspereince has always made me feel uneasy when I see exstremely young kids being baptized. I have seen people baptizing 2 year olds. Which has always caused me to wonder should there be a minimum age for baptizing?

[Falla39]

Bro. Chosenbyone,

If you believe you are being led by the Holy Ghost to be baptized as

an adult although you were baptized as a "child", I would go for it. They

that are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. Children should

look for parents for direction. Grown men and women at some point should

learn to look to God for direction. Paul said when he was a child, he did

childish things, had childish thoughts, etc. BUT when he became a man

he put away childish things. Jesus told His disciples that He DID only the

things His Father told Him. And said He spoke what the Father (Spirit)

told Him. Jesus was Spirit-led. Paul was so sensitive to the Spirit after

his "fall" on the Damascus road. David was sensitive after his "fall" with

Bathsheba, Samson was humbled greatly after his natural eyes were put

out. Many people have realized after their "fall" the things that are truly

important. The prodigal son was humbled in the pig pen. His father called

for the best robe, but I have a feeling the son longed for a "good washing"

or cleasning. His elder brother didn't feel he deserved anything. He had never

been to the "pig pen". I am sure he didn't feel he needed to be washed and

cleansed from anything. He had never gone anywhere, but what a terrible

attitude he had toward his brother who had left but came back home. Where

else could he have gone. After you've lived in the Father's house, there's

just no other place like home.

Now why do I believe the Holy Ghost is leading Bro. Chosenbyone!

You don't think the enemy is wanting him to have the Name of Jesus

called over him, do you! If you've never been where someone's been

you can't relate to their experience. I wouldn't want anyone else to

make my decisions for me. I know my Father personally! His Name is

JESUS!! Bro. Chosenbyone is an adult, he knows the Father. He wants

to be cleaned from where he has been, by the Blood of the Lamb and

by the word of his testimony!!

May we all seek to be led by the Spirit of Almighty God, in Jesus Name!

Jesus said "My sheep hear my voice and they follow me".

Blessings,

Falla39

[Falla39]

Jesus was in the temple at twelve years old, amazing the doctors

of the law. But he was not ready but was being prepared for the

time of the anointing at his baptism (at what age). The Spirt des-

cended and remained on him at his baptism. Not when he was a

child, although he was being prepared. He was taking instuction

from his Father at age 12 because of his answer to Mary when

she asked him why had he done thus and so. He let her know

that he must be about his Father's business. However he subjected

himself to his parents. God had assigned His Son to their care. Evidently

his Father was not ready for him to begin his ministry, although he was

preparing him for the time allotted by the Father. Who was in control!!

God or man! Who was directing Jesus life. Who is directing our lives?

Spirit? If not, why not!

Just some thoughts from an elder sister.

Falla39

[Sister Alvear]

You must live with your conscience if you feel to for some reason then do so but I do not believe you have to.

[Michlow]

For the record in answer to the title of this thread I believe that only Michlow has to be rebaptized. All others are covered.

:club

[Michlow]

One has so few pleasures in this life you have to grab them while you can. Tweaking Michlow is right up there with eating chocolate!:haloplug:lol

And who am I to take away one of the few pleasures in your life! :lol

[Esther]

ChosenOne, let me know when you want to be baptized and I will see what I can arrange for you.

It will probably be done outside of a normal service if that is ok with you.

I have someone that would be more than willing to do it for you, I'm sure. :)

[Rhoni]

ChosenOne, let me know when you want to be baptized and I will see what I can arrange for you.

It will probably be done outside of a normal service if that is ok with you.

I have someone that would be more than willing to do it for you, I'm sure. :)

Esther,

I am sure Bro. Strange would do it...he is there most of the time. I would love to come and witness it. Please let me know if there is anything I can do, or when so I can be there if it is all right with Bro. Chosen!

Sincerely, Sis., Rhoni

[ChTatum]

MOW,
Glad you brought up the mikveh, I was about to when I read your posts.

As to the brother Swordsman, your scripture reference is taken out of context. Tell me, is it referring to water baptism or spirit baptism?

Chosen,
As has already been stated, there is no scriptural reference advocating or prohibiting.
I have been baptized twice, once after backsliding. I do not regret either time.

[Esther]

Esther,

I am sure Bro. Strange would do it...he is there most of the time. I would love to come and witness it. Please let me know if there is anything I can do, or when so I can be there if it is all right with Bro. Chosen!

Sincerely, Sis., Rhoni

Actually I was think of Darryl, as Bro. Strange looked very tired to me Sunday.

I'm sure he either would be glad to do it.

[chosenbyone]

Bro. Chosenbyone,

If you believe you are being led by the Holy Ghost to be baptized as

an adult although you were baptized as a "child", I would go for it. They

that are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. Children should

look for parents for direction. Grown men and women at some point should

learn to look to God for direction. Paul said when he was a child, he did

childish things, had childish thoughts, etc. BUT when he became a man

he put away childish things. Jesus told His disciples that He DID only the

things His Father told Him. And said He spoke what the Father (Spirit)

told Him. Jesus was Spirit-led. Paul was so sensitive to the Spirit after

his "fall" on the Damascus road. David was sensitive after his "fall" with

Bathsheba, Samson was humbled greatly after his natural eyes were put

out. Many people have realized after their "fall" the things that are truly

important. The prodigal son was humbled in the pig pen. His father called

for the best robe, but I have a feeling the son longed for a "good washing"

or cleansing. His elder brother didn't feel he deserved anything. He had never

been to the "pig pen". I am sure he didn't feel he needed to be washed and

cleansed from anything. He had never gone anywhere, but what a terrible

attitude he had toward his brother who had left but came back home. Where

else could he have gone. After you've lived in the Father's house, there's

just no other place like home.

Now why do I believe the Holy Ghost is leading Bro. Chosenbyone!

You don't think the enemy is wanting him to have the Name of Jesus

called over him, do you! If you've never been where someone's been

you can't relate to their experience. I wouldn't want anyone else to

make my decisions for me. I know my Father personally! His Name is

JESUS!! Bro. Chosenbyone is an adult, he knows the Father. He wants

to be cleaned from where he has been, by the Blood of the Lamb and

by the word of his testimony!!

May we all seek to be led by the Spirit of Almighty God, in Jesus Name!

Jesus said "My sheep hear my voice and they follow me".

Blessings,

Falla39

I had to come up to the top to apologize for the length of this entry, but the joy of the Holy Ghost has filled my room and I cannot stop rejoicing and praising my sweet Lord.

Sister,

I have thanked God nearly every day that you have come to be not only my friend, but someone so dear to my heart. God has used you in ways that you would never know to minister to the very core of my being.

What you have written was exactly what my heart was trying to convey when I asked the question on this thread. When I was 15, I didn't know who God really was though I really wanted to have what my Pentecostal friends had with the Lord.

As I wrote yesterday, it wasn't until several years later that two very patient brothers at New Life Tab took it upon themselves to answer every question and regardless of how the bible study turned out, they were there the very next week doing what they were lead to do. Many of us would have thrown in the towel, but I thank God for these humble men of God who preserved when many would have said I was hopeless. I wasn't in anyway disrespectful to those guys, I just knew what my Papa had instilled in me for so many years.

I remember what turned out to be the last bible study I had with those two. As usual we met Sunday afternoon around 2:PM after lunch for our weekly bible study. It started just like every one before with all of us fully prepared with our scripture, questions, and yes...arguements. But you see, that day would not end like the several before, because when I read again in Acts, Chapter 20 verse 28, "Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood"...I froze. The two brothers continued a bit and they looked at me and cocked their heads wondering why I was so quite. I raised my head and cried out, "I see it...I see it"! I see who Jesus really is!!! What a day, what a day....a day that I received the REVELATION of who Jesus really was.

When I read that the Holy Ghost hath made you overseer to feed the CHURCH OF GOD that He purchased with His blood it was a one, two punch of heavenly revelation and truly one of the most significant moments in my spiritual walk. I loved the COG and I knew just like so many of my cousins, uncles and other family members that we were expected to go to Lee College to continue what our grandfather had lived his whole life. Many of them today have become overseers, evangelist, pastors and have known great success in their ministries.

Yet there were those of us that said we wanted to know without any doubt or consequences of going against the family who we would be working for....a Triune God or One God. Praise the mighty Name of Jesus Christ many now know and have never, ever comprised that truth.

My heart is overflowing just as the tears on my face this afternoon that I know Jesus. There truly is a revelation that comes to those seek to know Him and who study and wait on the Lord. I feel that too many of our people have not had that revelation, but they have just believed what they were told just like so many trinitarians have done for generations. We should weep for their souls that they would be restored and the truth burn within them to bring them forth preaching this truth to everyone.

If you have never been persecuted for your faith than I dare say that you have no faith. It is that faith that will save...it is that faith that will deliver...it is that faith passed down from the Apostles that will shine throughout eternity and will stand when all other doctrines have crumbled. Hold fast to your faith and never waver, never compromise, never surrender what God has revealed.

I may not be the true blue ultra-con I once was, but I would defend to my dying day this wonderful truth of the Oneness of our God. Those in other ranks speak of the mystery of the Godhead, because they haven't experienced the earth-shattering revelation of truth that will dispel the deceptive lies of those that tickle the ears of those around them.

Where has the burdened that so many had for the souls that are bound for hell living all around us. Have we become so complacent and comfortable that instead of weeping and reaching for those lost we just causally pass by without concern. We look at them and identify them as lost and many of us just let them continue to the drumbeat of Satan without any intervention whatsoever.

I want so badly to get up and tell everyone about what Jesus has done for them so that they might know true freedom, before it's too late. Many nights I lie here thinking if only I would have done more...If only I would have sacrificed more...If only I could have reached more...May God have mercy. It isn't our Father's will that any should parish, but we have stopped hearing His heart's cry for His lost sons and daughters.

Thank you Esther and everyone who have written here on this thread your thoughts on re-baptizing folks that have felt this need in their lives. I can tell you that my prayers have been answered and there remains no doubt that for me I must obey the Lord regarding this subject. My heart is full of such joy that I can't hardly contain myself. Oh, how precious my Jesus is to me and I owe him more than I could ever, ever repay.

Praise the lovely name of Jesus. I feel as though I could shout all over this room. I love Jesus so much.

[MissBrattified]

I think this would be a good reason not to do it. I think it speaks to their insecurity and their inability to simply place all trust in the blood of Jesus.

Some have been baptised multiple times and still have the same struggles - where does it stop? They need to be taught who it is they identified with in baptism and why they can fully trust his accomplishment on the cross.

I understand what you're saying, but on the other hand, Paul seemed to note that some Christians weren't as strong as others, and he made allowances for them.

[nwlife]

There is something I really liked when i was looking at the methodist church and entering their ministry. They do not rebaptize (generally speaking) They have instead a service that is derived from the baptismal service. It is a service where at the point of baptism, they put their hand into the water and say remember the convenant of your baptism. It is something I would adapt if I was a pastor. I would have to look at the book of doctrine again (if I can find it) to get more specifics, but they use this service when someone wants to be rebaptized or rededicate their life/walk with Christ.

Being rebaptized to me to soothe the mind, is similar to this service of the methodist. But I would not hesitate to rebaptize someone.

I always though refer people to go and talk to their pastors first of all things.

[chosenbyone]

As I wrote, it has been a month of me trying to understand exactly why I have felt the Lord tell me to be re-baptized. I started this thread yesterday in hopes that someone would help me understand. For me, I am to be obedient to the Lord and that is what he has commanded from me. I didn't understand it before, but I can tell you that He is in control and I have felt the anointing and the sweet presence of Jesus to where I can't hardly control the joy that has been flowing from me. I nearly gave up a few weeks ago when I received some bad news. My faith was nearly shattered. But through all of this, God will be glorified and I will live to tell everyone of His loving healing power. Don't count me out...count me blessed.

And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever. 1 John 2:17

[CC1]

And who am I to take away one of the few pleasures in your life! :lol


Thank you dear sister....er....I mean former sister.:haloplug:killinme

[stmatthew]

Baptism is the fulfillment of the old testament circumcision. It is the putting away of the flesh. Once this covenant is accomplished, it can never be undone. Do note that circumcision was administered to babies that had no understand the covenant. So understanding water baptism is not a prerequisite to being baptized. The fact is that it was as the children grew that they were taught about their God, and the intricacies of the covenant.

I do not believe there is any biblical president to be re-baptized. On what grounds can faith be planted if the scriptures do not give a resting place for its seed??

[jwharv]

Baptism is the fulfillment of the old testament circumcision. It is the putting away of the flesh. Once this covenant is accomplished, it can never be undone. Do note that circumcision was administered to babies that had no understand the covenant. So understanding water baptism is not a prerequisite to being baptized. The fact is that it was as the children grew that they were taught about their God, and the intricacies of the covenant.

I do not believe there is any biblical president to be re-baptized. On what grounds can faith be planted if the scriptures do not give a resting place for its seed??


Then do you believe in infant baptism?

[philjones]

ChosenOne,

My understanding of the salvation experience is that we are "born again" through faith, repentance, baptism, and the infilling of the Holy Ghost. You can no more be unborn in the spirit than you can be unborn in the flesh. When you turned your back on God and went into sin you became a rebellious and insubordinate child but you were still a child of God. You had forfeited your inheritance but you were still a child of God. When you came home you did not need to re-enter the womb to be born again again! You simply needed to come to the father in faith and repentance and be restored to your rightful place... no matter how critical the older brother was or how much he condemned you as being unworthy of restoration!

Walk in the faith of Jesus Christ and the efficacy of your new birth experience!

[Rhoni]

As I wrote, it has been a month of me trying to understand exactly why I have felt the Lord tell me to be re-baptized. I started this thread yesterday in hopes that someone would help me understand. For me, I am to be obedient to the Lord and that is what he has commanded from me. I didn't understand it before, but I can tell you that He is in control and I have felt the anointing and the sweet presence of Jesus to where I can't hardly control the joy that has been flowing from me. I nearly gave up a few weeks ago when I received some bad news. My faith was nearly shattered. But through all of this, God will be glorified and I will live to tell everyone of His loving healing power. Don't count me out...count me blessed.

And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever. 1 John 2:17

Chosen,
A friend told me a true testimony of a person they were close to, who was healed completely in the waters of baptism. I'm still believing and praying for a miracle for you!
Your friend, Rhoni

[Falla39]

I still have a feeling that the prodigal son still wanted a "cleansing"

or a "good bath" even though his father may not have said, "Son, you

smell like a pig pen. Get cleaned up and then you can have the best

robe". No, the father was just so glad his son had returned". He had

no doubt been looking down that long road so long and not only looking

but going a distance, looking, longing, just a glimpse of his son. We know

that because when he was yet a GREAT way off, his father saw him, and

had compassion, and RAN , and fell on his neck, and kissed him. Sounds like

a true father to me. I wonder how many prodigals would come home with

that kind of reception from their father! All the time the son is telling his

father how unworthy he is, even to be called his son. but the father is

telling his servants to get the best robe (represents putting on righteous-

ness). The father tells the servants to put it on him. and put a ring (signet

ring, representing the family name) "For as many of you as have been bapti-

zed into Christ have put on Christ".(Gal.3:27) and put shoes on his feet.

I can almost imagine the son saying, "Father, I really need a bath. I feel

so dirty". He had been welcomed back, but he who had been in a "dirty"

enviroment, wanted to be clean or washed to re-enter the clean enviro-

ment to which he had returned. Can you blame him for wanting a cleansing

bath. It doesn't mention the father saying anything about a bath, but I

can assure you, the son was desiring one!!! (my thoughts!)

Maybe he could have been singing:

I wanna be washed in the Blood of the Lamb,
I need a cleansing from the Fountain.
My soul is hungry from this aching within,
I wanna be washed in the Blood of the Lamb.

So if someone has been handed the best robe, wouldn't YOU

want to be clean before putting it on. (Again, my thoughts)!

Blessings,

Falla39

[jwharv]

Then do you believe in infant baptism?


Bump.......................

[TalkLady]

If this is a deep concern to you and is troubling you, I'd say - talk to your pastor and let him rebaptize you. I've heard of a congregation where it was taught that everytime someone sinned/went to altar/repented - not sure of exact term here - that person was rebaptized. There was a lot of water used in that church. :lol

Hello, AFF -

I've been out of pocket during the last few weeks and I've had this question daily on my mind. Now, I learned all the scriptures that support our doctrine; however, I've had trouble discounting the need of being baptized again for the remission of sins after walking away from God and being involved with horrible sin.

I backslid and came back to our merciful Savior, but I've been troubled in my spirit about the need to wash all those sins under the blood through the act of baptism. Has anyone heard of this being practice in our churches?

Any scripturally based answers that you could provide would be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

chosenbyone

[stmatthew]

Baptism is the fulfillment of the old testament circumcision. It is the putting away of the flesh. Once this covenant is accomplished, it can never be undone. Do note that circumcision was administered to babies that had no understand the covenant. So understanding water baptism is not a prerequisite to being baptized. The fact is that it was as the children grew that they were taught about their God, and the intricacies of the covenant.

I do not believe there is any biblical president to be re-baptized. On what grounds can faith be planted if the scriptures do not give a resting place for its seed??

Then do you believe in infant baptism?

No, but I do not believe that the baptisee has to understand all the in's and out's of water baptism in order to obey the commandment. Just as children receive the holy ghost at early ages at times.

[CC1]

The important question is "has anybody rebaptized Michlow yet?"

[stmatthew]

I still have a feeling that the prodigal son still wanted a "cleansing"

or a "good bath" even though his father may not have said, "Son, you

smell like a pig pen. Get cleaned up and then you can have the best

robe". No, the father was just so glad his son had returned". He had

no doubt been looking down that long road so long and not only looking

but going a distance, looking, longing, just a glimpse of his son. We know

that because when he was yet a GREAT way off, his father saw him, and

had compassion, and RAN , and fell on his neck, and kissed him. Sounds like

a true father to me. I wonder how many prodigals would come home with

that kind of reception from their father! All the time the son is telling his

father how unworthy he is, even to be called his son. but the father is

telling his servants to get the best robe (represents putting on righteous-

ness). The father tells the servants to put it on him. and put a ring (signet

ring, representing the family name) "For as many of you as have been bapti-

zed into Christ have put on Christ".(Gal.3:27) and put shoes on his feet.

I can almost imagine the son saying, "Father, I really need a bath. I feel

so dirty". He had been welcomed back, but he who had been in a "dirty"

enviroment, wanted to be clean or washed to re-enter the clean enviro-

ment to which he had returned. Can you blame him for wanting a cleansing

bath. It doesn't mention the father saying anything about a bath, but I

can assure you, the son was desiring one!!! (my thoughts!)

Maybe he could have been singing:

I wanna be washed in the Blood of the Lamb,
I need a cleansing from the Fountain.
My soul is hungry from this aching within,
I wanna be washed in the Blood of the Lamb.

So if someone has been handed the best robe, wouldn't YOU

want to be clean before putting it on. (Again, my thoughts)!

Blessings,

Falla39

The Sacraments of the Lords Supper and foot washing is what a believer would act upon in order to find a fresh cleansing from the journey.

Water Baptism is a one time experience. As PhilJones has stated, you can never be unborn, so to attempted rebirth would do violence to the Word of God.There remaineth no more sacrifice. It is already accomplished. The fact is that faith needs to be put in the initial work of God. If you can't put faith in the initial work, I seriously doubt that a "second" baptism will do any good.

Again, the crossing of the red sea (baptism unto Moses) was not something that was done multiple times. The earth was only baptized one time (in the flood), with God promising not to do it again with water. Fire was the next baptism the earth would be promised.

[chosenbyone]

This was the first time that I have had a chance to log on today. First of all, I want to thank Rhoni, Sister Falla and others for their heartfelt posts that they took the time to write here. I have felt truly blessed to have such wonderful people that have taken time to pray with and for me regarding this subject. Rhoni, do you think that next week, Saturday, would work for you and Brother S. to meet with me? Just drop me a line or call me tomorrow evening. I wanted to thank you for being such a dear friend. I listened to your CD last night and I can't wait for you to hear the songs. I wanted to share with you and Sis. Falla what happened last night, so look for my email.

Brother Jones, I have always admired you though we have never met and I appreciated seeing that you wrote your comments on this thread. One day, I hope that we would have a chance to meet for coffee and talk about our wonderful Lord and Savior.

StMatthew, I would never want to do violence to the Word of God. The Word has guided me through many years and many situations. It has always been precious to me and Jesus has always used His Word to direct me in all areas of my life. I have enjoyed reading your posts here on AFF and have always been impressed with your knowledge and class. Would you do me a favor? Would you give me scriptural references to establish your statement that if I were to be re-baptized that I would do violence to the Word? I would greatly appreciate your time and effort in doing that for me.

There were many incidents written in the Word where the Lord instructed people to do things that were "out of the norm" and they faced the onslaught of the skeptics in their day. If those that received their healing and deliverances had listened to the naysayers, we would not have had so many wonderful stories that we read in the Bible that have brought faith to so many of us.

My life and my will is in the hands of the Lord and not in the opinions, though appreciated, of those that haven't heard from God regarding my particular circumstance.

May the Lord bless you fully and may health and happiness overflow in your life.

chosen

[Sherri]

Follow your heart, CO. We will all be praying for you!

[chosenbyone]

Follow your heart, CO. We will all be praying for you!

Thank you so very much, Sherri. I told someone yesterday how gracious you were and I have enjoyed your sweet personality that you have brought to this forum.

I pray that the presence of Jesus surrounds you everyday of your life.

Bless you...

[stmatthew]

Follow your heart, CO. We will all be praying for you!

Jer 17:9 The heart [is] deceitful above all [things], and desperately wicked: who can know it?


Do not follow your heart. Follow the bible.

[jwharv]

The Sacraments of the Lords Supper and foot washing is what a believer would act upon in order to find a fresh cleansing from the journey.

Water Baptism is a one time experience. As PhilJones has stated, you can never be unborn, so to attempted rebirth would do violence to the Word of God.There remaineth no more sacrifice. It is already accomplished. The fact is that faith needs to be put in the initial work of God. If you can't put faith in the initial work, I seriously doubt that a "second" baptism will do any good.

Again, the crossing of the red sea (baptism unto Moses) was not something that was done multiple times. The earth was only baptized one time (in the flood), with God promising not to do it again with water. Fire was the next baptism the earth would be promised.



So you believe when I was rebaptised I "did violence to the Word of God"?

Where do you get this idea from? I know God lead me to get rebaptised I do not doubt that at all. I know my expereince and can only speak for me. I don't see how my rebaptism at an age when I finaly got the meaning and seriousness of what baptism meant did any harm to God's word.

If you truely believe it doesn't matter if the person being baptized understands what they are doing or not, then how can you not agree with infant baptism? I think it truely matters that the person being baptised knows the seriousness of what it is about.

[stmatthew]

StMatthew, I would never want to do violence to the Word of God. The Word has guided me through many years and many situations. It has always been precious to me and Jesus has always used His Word to direct me in all areas of my life. I have enjoyed reading your posts here on AFF and have always been impressed with your knowledge and class. Would you do me a favor? Would you give me scriptural references to establish your statement that if I were to be re-baptized that I would do violence to the Word? I would greatly appreciate your time and effort in doing that for me.

chosen

First, I want to make sure to say that my post was not meant to be offensive. Maybe the Term "Violence to the Word" is too harsh of a saying.

Let me try to answer you on this. For our faith to be valid and grow, it MUST find its basis in the written Word of God. Only by the Word of God can faith find life. When a doctrine or belief is embraced that is not within the Word of God, or is contrary to the standard doctrine that is outlined within the Word of God, there comes a conflict between ones faith, and God's Word.


Now if I apply that to baptism, I find no place where faith could possibly rest upon the Word of God in a "second" baptism. What scripture will you rest upon for this event? Baptism is burial with Christ. Will you crucify him and put him in the grave a second time?

As I posted, the examples of Baptism do not show, ever, a second baptism taking place. The children of Israel only crossed in the Red Sea once. The flood only covered the earth once. The Apostles never baptized someone a second time. But when Jesus prepared to wash feet, and Peter balked at the idea, Jesus let him know that "He that is washed needeth not save to wash [his] feet, but is clean every whit".


Let me leave you with this. You have obeyed the Lord by repenting of your sins, being baptized in Jesus Name for the remission of sins, and have received the Holy Ghost. You are his child. The new birth took place. John was very plain when he stated my favorite verse in the bible.....

1Jo 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

[stmatthew]

So you believe when I was rebaptised I "did violence to the Word of God"?

Where do you get this idea from? I know God lead me to get rebaptised I do not doubt that at all. I know my expereince and can only speak for me. I don't see how my rebaptism at an age when I finaly got the meaning and seriousness of what baptism meant did any harm to God's word.

If you truely believe it doesn't matter if the person being baptized understands what they are doing or not, then how can you not agree with infant baptism? I think it truely matters that the person being baptised knows the seriousness of what it is about.

Bro,
I just posted and explained that I may have used too harsh of words.


What scripture do you use to support being re-baptized? I am not saying that someone will go to hell for being re-baptized. But I do not see scriptural support, which is the only place faith should be resting, for this being done. I think it actually shows a lack of understanding of water baptism. Its like asking Christ to die a second time for ones sins, and being buried again, as you are BURIED WITH HIM in baptism? Maybe a better wording for me to use is that it does violence to Christ?

[stmatthew]

If you truely believe it doesn't matter if the person being baptized understands what they are doing or not, then how can you not agree with infant baptism? I think it truely matters that the person being baptised knows the seriousness of what it is about.

I believe that one should be of an age that they make their own decision to be baptized. The age will be different for each child. An infant cannot make its own decision. But I in no way believe that you have to have full understanding on the doctrine of baptism for it to be effective. You just simply have to be able to make a choice to obey the Word of God.

[jwharv]

I believe that one should be of an age that they make their own decision to be baptized. The age will be different for each child. An infant cannot make its own decision. But I in no way believe that you have to have full understanding on the doctrine of baptism for it to be effective. You just simply have to be able to make a choice to obey the Word of God.


This has been my point all along in my case. I never actually made the decesion to be baptized the first time. I was around 4 or 5 and the sunday school teacher basicly told us he was going to ask our parents if it was okay for us to be baptised. We went along because most of us just thought of it as getting to play in the water of the baptismal tank. We did not know any better. I did not understand what being baptised was about and I truely feel the choice was made for me instead of by me.

This is the reason when I got the Holy Ghost I felt I needed to be rebaptized. I had multiple people tell me it was not neccesary and I prayed and truely agonized over the decesion before asking my pastor at the time. I truely feel it is what God lead me to do and I can truely say there was a huge diffrence when I came out of the water the second time then when I did the first time. But as I said I can opnly speak for my expereince.

[stmatthew]

This has been my point all along in my case. I never actually made the decesion to be baptized the first time. I was around 4 or 5 and the sunday school teacher basicly told us he was going to ask our parents if it was okay for us to be baptised. We went along because most of us just thought of it as getting to play in the water of the baptismal tank. We did not know any better. I did not understand what being baptised was about and I truely feel the choice was made for me instead of by me.

This is the reason when I got the Holy Ghost I felt I needed to be rebaptized. I had multiple people tell me it was not neccesary and I prayed and truely agonized over the decesion before asking my pastor at the time. I truely feel it is what God lead me to do and I can truely say there was a huge diffrence when I came out of the water the second time then when I did the first time. But as I said I can opnly speak for my expereince.

If you were not old enough to make a decision, or the decision was made for you, then I could see the need, because you really were never baptized according to faith. Baptism must be an act of obedient faith.

My concern is someone who would be re-baptized after having known the Lord.

[jwharv]

If you were not old enough to make a decision, or the decision was made for you, then I could see the need, because you really were never baptized according to faith. Baptism must be an act of obedient faith.

My concern is someone who would be re-baptized after having known the Lord.


I am sad to say that I know many who were baptized as I came up in church whose parents made the decesion for them to be baptized not themselves. This is one reason I am not quick to denounce someone wanting to be rebaptized. Because of my expereince.

[Falla39]

Jer 17:9 The heart [is] deceitful above all [things], and desperately wicked: who can know it?


Do not follow your heart. Follow the bible.

Bro. Matt,

Ezekiel 36:26: "A new heart also will I give you, and a new

spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony

heart out of our flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.

vs. 27 "And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to

walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and

do them". vs.28, And ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to

your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God".

What tremendous HOPE:

vs. 29, "I will also save you from all your uncleannesses: and I

will call for the corn, and increase it, and lay no famine upon you".

John 14: 26 "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom

the Father will send in my name, he will TEACH you ALL things, and

bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto

you".

Rom. 8: 13," For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: BUT if ye

through the Spirit do mortify (kill) the deeds of the body, ye shall

live.

Vs. 14, "For as many as are LED by the SPIRIT of GOD, they are

the SONS of GOD".

Titus 3:3, "For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient,

deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy,

hateful, and hating one another.

Vs.4, "BUT AFTER that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward

man appeared, vs.5, Not by works of righteousness which we have done,

but according to his MERCY he saved us, by the washing of regeneration,

and renewing of the Holy Ghost; vs.6, Which he shed on us abundantly

through Jesus Christ our Saviour; vs.7, That being justified by his grace,

we should be made heirs according to the HOPE of eternal life". Look up

the prefix, "re". (Renew, revive, restore, reconcile, return, repent).

Matt. 5:7, "Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy".


I believe we are being judged in this life. Jesus gave the guidelines

while on earth. He is the same yesterday, and today and forever.

We have received the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Truth to lead and

guide us. If we are being led by the Spirit of God, we are His sons

and daughters. We have no excuse for not having answers for any

question. The Spirit will lead, IF we will follow His leading. God is a

Spirit and they that worship Him must worship Him in Spirit and in

Truth.

There were those in Jesus' day on earth, that couldn't let go of

the law He was fulfilling, so they were not prepared when destruction

came. They looked to the law as read, not to Jesus' fulfillment. There

are those in other beliefs who read the Bible religiously, and they can

quote with many of us. But without the Spirit to lead and guide, where

will it take them. An automobile without a motor, isn't going anywhere.

Blessings,

Falla39

[Falla39]

If you were not old enough to make a decision, or the decision was made for you, then I could see the need, because you really were never baptized according to faith. Baptism must be an act of obedient faith.

My concern is someone who would be re-baptized after having known the Lord.


Bro. Matt,

There is no way I could have understood what you are saying in the

bolded a few years ago. I would have just taken it as spoken by those

in earlier years. But the past few years, especially since our six children

have grown, married and started their own families, I have taken the

time to seek to KNOW the Lord. You don't KNOW your parents as soon

as you are born. But they are with you and you get to Know them by

spending much time with them. Knowing what the Bible says is not

knowing the God of the Bible. The Word is the seed that begats faith

that should bring about a birth (spiritual). The Spirit giveth life.

Jesus told those Jews who believed on him, "IF ye continue in my word,

THEN (conditional) ARE ye my disciples INDEED". And ye shall KNOW the

truth, and the truth shall make you free". FREE from what? The law of

sin and death. It takes years to become fully mature. First the corn,

seed (kernel), then the blade, then the full ear in the corn.(mature).

The Bible says "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge". but

it doesn't have to be that way. We can know the truth and the truth

will set us free. He whom the Son sets free is free indeed. His name is

JESUS!! Truth came to set the captives free. Praise the Lord, He still

sets those who "follow on to know Him", in Spirt and in Truth".

Once like a bird in prison I dwelt, no freedom from my sorrow I felt,
But JESUS came and listened to me. Glory to God, He set me free.

Blessings,

Falla39

[Rhoni]

AFF prayer warriors,

Next Sunday Bro. Chosen will be baptized and we are expecting a miracle of God in his life. Please pray that Chosen will receive what his faith is believing.

Join with us in praying for a miracle of heart, mind, soul, spirit, and body.

In Jesus Name!

[CC1]

I am just checking back on this thread to see if Michlow has been rebaptized yet?


























LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[chosenbyone]

AFF prayer warriors,

Next Sunday Bro. Chosen will be baptized and we are expecting a miracle of God in his life. Please pray that Chosen will receive what his faith is believing.

Join with us in praying for a miracle of heart, mind, soul, spirit, and body.

In Jesus Name!

Rhoni,

You know when something is the will of God when everything just falls into place. I believe that this act of obedience will be the catalyst for my healing. I thank you for all of your prayers and support and being such a good friend.

Not only will you be there next week, but my dear friend Sister Falla and her husband will be too. I am so looking forward to seeing you and meeting Sister Falla for the first time face to face.

I am truly a blessed man.

chosen

[Rhoni]

Rhoni,

You know when something is the will of God when everything just falls into place. I believe that this act of obedience will be the catalyst for my healing. I thank you for all of your prayers and support and being such a good friend.

Not only will you be there next week, but my dear friend Sister Falla and her husband will be too. I am so looking forward to seeing you and meeting Sister Falla for the first time face to face.

I am truly a blessed man.

chosen

You have rightly said...I do believe it is the will of God. It thrills me that Sis. Falla and her husband are swinging by there on their journey...they are good people. Your baptism will be a fresh start for all of us.

When I think about Jehoveh Nissi and his train filling the temple...I am reminded that all is yea and AMEN...there is only VICTORY in Him.

Bringing my shockamoo shoes:sshhh:rockband:shockamoo

Blessings & Prayers, Sis. Rhonda

[jwharv]

Praying for you Bro Chosen.......................