Subject: What "norms" can we disregard? |
Bible Note: Greetings Hank, I'm glad to have you weigh in on this subject. Obviously, I don't think it is a moot point. If God meant that we only 'get wet', then we might do it any of the ways you state, but when the specific command is given to be 'immersed', then that negates all other options. Following this principle is sound and keeps the church from straying from the truth. Legalism is the habit of binding where God has not: such as what Jews did, layering various traditions on washings and fasting on top of the Mosaic Law. That is Legalism. A strict adherence to the Biblical pattern can also become a Legalistic practice if it is done for the wrong reason: when a faith act becomes a ritual/rite. I believe that the practice of sprinkling infants is viewed in much the same way that carnal Jews viewed circumcision. Without faith being involved, the act has saving power "in and of itself." This error is not followed by adults who believe salvation is by grace through faith, received at the point of immersion in the name of Jesus Christ. Adhering to "immersion" because Jesus said "immersion" does not constitute Legalism. Disciplerami |