Baptism

Because Jesus set the example “At that time, Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan” (Mark 1:9)

Because Jesus commands “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you.” (Matthew 29:19-20)

Because it demonstrates that I am a believer. Baptism is an act of obedience. “So those who welcomed his message were baptized.” (Acts 2:41)

Infant Baptism:
We practice infant baptism in the confidence that God works through families. Its roots are in Old Testament circumcision as a sign of being included in God’s covenant people. “Train children in the right way, and when old, they will not stray.” (Proverbs 22:6)

Adult Baptism:
We practice adult baptism as an expression of God’s saving grace. Its roots are in Jewish custom of ceremonial washing as a sign of a new work of God in a person’s life. “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you, for your children, and for all who are far away, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to him.” (Acts 2:39)

Baptism is done by immersion, sprinkling or pouring; the issue is not how one is baptized but that one is. “When the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of any righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy, through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.” (Titus 3:4-5)

Catholic Tradition:
The “catholic” tradition believes it is appropriate and expected for Christian parents to have their children baptized, drawing parallels to Old Testament circumcision. Baptism is seen as a way to include children in the covenant, just as Isaac was circumcised in his infancy as part of God’s covenant with Abraham.

Baptistic Tradition:
The “baptistic” tradition holds that in the New Testament, baptism always follows conversion and personal commitment. It emphasizes the importance of repentance and a conscious decision before baptism.

Lake of the Woods Church Approach:
Here at The Lake of the Woods Church (LOWC), we describe ourselves as “a church for all believers” and “multi-denominational.” We seek to emphasize commonalities among followers of Jesus while respecting various traditions and backgrounds. We offer both infant baptism for families who request it and adult baptism for those who choose to make a mature decision to accept Jesus. We do not believe in re-baptizing, but encourage individuals to consider the meaning of their previous baptism and provide alternative expressions of their commitment to Christ, such as confirmation or participation in Holy Communion.