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NASB | 1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one [Holy] Spirit we were all baptized into one body, [spiritually transformed--united together] whether Jews or Greeks (Gentiles), slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one [Holy] Spirit [since the same Holy Spirit fills each life]. [Rom 3:22; Gal 3:28] |
Subject: Baptized before serving in choir |
Bible Note: Hello sister, you have received several good responses and my own is simply an attempt to offer encouragement to you. Praise God sister. Your participation on the Forum has without doubt demonstrated you to be a responsible seeker of truth and God's will. Your focused efforts to draw biblical conclusions continue to be both encouraging and great examples for us all. No wonder that those in your church have called on you to take on such responsibility. You are right in not assuming that any church mandate is biblical just because the church has made it a rule. That is always the wrong answer. On issues like this my approach is this. After careful study and consideration, if Scripture doesn't specifically teach it, and the practice does not itself contradict Scriptures, I consider the point "non-essential". Then I am free to accept or reject it. A good example is that my own denomination requires baptism for church membership. We also believe and teach that water baptism does not save but is a symbolic, public confession of our position in Christ once He has saved us. I have no objections to being baptized into church membership as a like symbol of my commitment and standing with the church as a member. It is not required in any biblical teaching that I am aware of. Nor is it forsaken in any. If the church taught that baptism was necessary to be placed in the true church, the body of Christ, that would be unbiblical and unacceptable. I believe that a proper explanation should be given to each prospective choir member as to why baptism is required so each can decide for him/herself. If that "reason" is not in contradiction to Scripture, I personally would support the tradition of the church. Just my two cents worth. God bless you sister, Jeff |