REBAPTISM

November 13 

Therefore, to one who knows to do the right thing and does not do it, to him it is sin. James 4:17

Some may be convinced that Matthew 28:19 teaches Trine Immersion—but due to emotional baggage attached to a prior baptism, are reluctant to submit to rebaptism. This presents a real difficulty for some, who feel rebaptism would somehow “wash away” the heartfelt intent and significance associated with their prior experience. Single-immersed individuals may affirm “I was sincerely attempting to honor God!” Others, sprinkled as babies, may feel rebaptism would dishonor the loving-intent of their parents.  

In calling upon folks to observe Christ’s command, we aren’t seeking to bring dishonor. We affirm that God recognized the sincere intent standing behind previous commitments—and on that level, they constituted earnest attempts to please Him. However, when one receives deeper enlightenment in the Lord’s ways, we ascend to a higher plane of accountability. NOW one is being called-upon to honor God once again, in the light of a present and more accurate level of understanding (James 4:17)!  

Yes, baptism expresses personal dedication, but God also has an important teaching-agenda associated with the Form—and therefore demands that the Rite be conducted accurately, so that His intended message be correctly communicated. Regarding His Holy Ordinances, BOTH Form and heart-intent are important unto God! In Old Testament times, God’s anger burned against the Israelites for careless lapses in ceremonial form (Lev. 10:1-3; 2 Sam. 6:3-10) AND for having an insincere heart-attitude (Isa. 1:11-14, Jer. 6:20). In the Church, God likewise takes His appointed Forms SERIOUSLY (1 Cor. 11:29-30)! 

In Trine Immersion, we adore and symbolically identify with the Triune professing faith in the Three Eternal Personalities and praising Each for their mighty redemptive deeds! Single Immersion cannot accomplish this.

Terry L. Reese