Non-denominational churches are indeed growing massively. These churches are a non-conventional and lenient form of Protestants who believe in evangelical practices. However, exceptions are seen and observed. It will not be wrong to say that denominational churches practice baptism. But the question is do non-denominational churches near me and you observe this practice too?
The Answer: Non-Denominational Churches Practice Baptism or Not?
If you are looking for a one sentence answer, let us say that “Yes, these churches observe baptism”. Now, moving on to the explanation part.
In non-denominational churches, the members go for something called “believer’s baptism”. It means baptism here in these churches is not just for infants. There is nothing like “infant baptism” here. Interestingly, these churches tend to opt for the “full immersion” kind of baptism. What does that mean? Well, it means the elements of baptism are not the same as Protestants. There is no trace of sprinkling unless the circumstances are explanatory or justifying.
The myth of Baptism in Non-Denominational Churches
There is a myth or misunderstanding of baptism. Mostly and usually the act of baptism is taken as the cleansing of sin from soul, heart, body, and mind – it is not the case! The water used during the act of baptism is a perfect symbol of “death”. When the person is taken out from the water denotes or symbolizes “new life”.
Non-Denominational Churches Associates Baptism
It is interesting and exciting to know that non-denominational churches follow baptism. They not just follow but also instruct others to practice baptism. Therefore, to say that non-denominational churches don’t practice baptism will be wrong!
Reasons Why Non-Denominational Churches Practice Baptism
See, there are different types of non-denominational churches. Some of them follow Jesus Christ and even obey the Scripture. These churches are into preaching the Gospel as well. However, other types of non-denominational churches don’t follow any of these practices.
The reasons as to why they baptize their members are mentioned below.
Reason #1: Jesus Asked for It!
This is the most solid reason for most of those who are associated with non-denominational churches. For people, anything said by Jesus is a must. That’s their reason to baptize as well.
Reason #2: Jesus was Baptized
Another strong reason that makes non-denominational churches go for baptism is that Jesus was also baptized. If you want proof, we have it – read Matthew 3:16 to know more about it!
Reason #3: The Start of Commitment
As soon as you get baptized, the commitment to Jesus starts. It doesn’t mean the opposite though – the end of being committed.
Method of Baptism in a Non-Denominational Church
Now that we know the answer. It is necessary to know how non-denominational people carry out the process of baptism.
As mentioned above, the kind of baptism followed or practiced by non-denominational churches is based on full immersion. It means the person who needs to get baptized goes all the way, deepest as he or she could, in the water. Once the person goes into the depth of water, all of him or her is taken out. What makes this immersion important? Well, you see when the entire body is taken in the water it gets the importance of getting cleansed from the sins.
However, when it comes to baptizing infants. The procedure is different from full immersion (meant for adults). Water is sprinkled on the head of the child. The amount is such that it easily runs from the forehead. To make the process easy, someone (could be a clergyman, godparent, or child’s parent) holds the child from moving.
Last Words: Do Non-Denominational Churches Baptize?
Yes, they do! However, there are different practices. You must have learned about the types and procedures of baptizing an infant and adult.
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