Bible Question: After accepting Jesus Christ as your personal saviour and yet have not taken water Baptism,Can you partake in the Holy communion? |
Bible Answer: Bunty: John3:16-36. Baptism has been topic that we have really gone over in copious notes in the past and recently. However, I do not recall this question being brought up before. So I would say you gave a good question, and it is thought provoking. In scripture the examples we have is believers were baptized very soon after confessing Jesus Christ was their Lord. In Scripture there are examples, and instructions of how Communion was done, and the warning not to take communion unworthley. There notworthy concerns about how one could answer your question. One example, my brother in Christ, Emmaus, whom I love in Christ, and respect quite highly, do differ on this issue. I am a conserative, evangelical, protestant. Brother Emmaus is Roman Catholic. So our views on communion and Baptism are quite different. For me, this is no reason not to show respect, kindness, and demonstrate Christian brotherly love. I am going to state my view and understanding of Scripture, on this question of yours. Baptism means to submerge, and cover up with water. One could say burried in the likeness of Christ's death, raised in the likeness resurrection. Quite symbolic of Christ is the Ordinance of being Baptized, after accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour. To be a genuine believer, follower of Christ we are told to outwardly confess Jesus Christ. Baptism is open confession to the body of believers of your salvation. Baptism is perhaps the first outward sign of being "born again". Baptism, Communion, and Marriage are ORDINANCES of Christian belief. These Ordinances are NOT AN OPTION! Baptism is not required for salvation. Anyone who refuses to be baptized has ample reason doubt their faith is genuine. I can find no specfic scripture that says a new believer who has not been able to be baptized should be denied communion. However, I would rather error on the side of when in doubt, don't. Most churches have a baptismal service at least quarterly, I would hope! I would say if you are in a church that is not a soul winning church then go to one that is and get baptized ASAP. My back ground is Baptist. This is what I believe is supported in Scriptures teachings. I say to you, and any other believer, I respect the understanding of others in the Forum, and I am reminded in Galations 5:6 "....The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love." NIV. I have sincerely offered my understanding of Scripture, to your question. I extend my respect to those who have different opinions. Peace and God's Love is offered to you. justme |