Sprinkling/Pouring/Immersing
Many Christian denominations practice baptism by sprinkling or pouring water over the head. Other denominations, like Baptists, practice baptism by immersion, where the person is fully submerged in water. From a symbolic perspective, immersion better portrays being “buried” with Christ.
And, while some Christians argue that the biblical word for baptism means “to immerse”; and therefore, that immersion is the only valid mode of baptism, please consider Romans 6:3-4, which assures us that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were “baptized” into His death. We were buried therefore with Him by “baptism into death”, so that as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.
So, baptism, regardless of the method, symbolizes cleansing from sin, death to the old life, and rising to a new life in Christ. And while baptism is a significant act of faith and obedience for Christians symbolizes this spiritual transformation; it is not a means of salvation in itself; salvation comes only through faith in Jesus Christ!
Although this is not our normal immersion baptism, on the second Sunday in March, 2025, Pastor Morgan “baptized” two new converts by sprinkling. Hallelujah! We rejoiced with them and their families and have vowed to nurture them as we all grow into a greater image of Jesus Christ!
Delores B. Scott