Baptism is a major aspect of the Jamaican culture and Christianity. Our first Sunday in Jamaica last December was a baptism Sunday. There were about 7 candidates, and it was a great blessing to be present for that service. What we would learn over the next several months is that many people here have a distorted view of baptism (as I am sure many Americans do as well). Of the differing views, two are most prevalent: 1) baptism is the means of salvation, 2) baptism is the seal to your salvation (without it, you aren't official). Biblical baptism is neither of these, but it is a symbol of our faith. The symbol means that we have died with Christ (go into the water), we have been buried with Christ (in the water), and are now raised with Christ to new life (coming up from the water). Through this symbol one makes a public showing and declaration of his or her intent to be identified with Jesus Christ.
As a result of these misconceptions, Pastor Allen and the circuit churches hold membership/baptism classes for those who have made professions of faith and desire to follow Jesus. The goal is to teach the class the basics of Christianity while dispelling misconceptions and guiding them toward a Biblical perspective. Over the past 10 months, I have had the great pleasure of helping to teach with Pastor Allen this group of eager young believers on Monday nights. The class is a group of active, hungry, and devoted students. Monday night class should end around 9, but we often stay until 10 because the students keep asking questions and simply want more!
This group of 10 was baptized this past Sunday. As each candidate went forward to give his or her testimony before the church, it was clear that God had done a real work in every one of their hearts. As such, it was their intention to be identified with Jesus, their Savior and Lord, in this very public setting. After each was baptized, the church congregation erupted in choruses and celebration. The church was excited WITH the baptism candidates and celebrated with them in a great display of sincere welcome to the fellowship of the saints!
Kirsten and I love watching baptisms. Hearing personal testimonies of lives changed by Jesus, sincere desires to follow Jesus, and passion to be identified with Him (as to say, I am dead to self and sin but made alive to Christ and true life) bring great joy to our hearts because it reminds us of our own conversions! Please pray that these 10 young believers will continue to grow into greater maturity and faith! You can view pictures of the baptism here.
No comments:
Post a Comment