Expert: Pastor Don Carpenter - 8/1/2010

Question
The relationship I have had with God has always been a private issue for me.  Recently, I began considering baptism.  However, the public nature of baptisms I attended in my childhood, hold me back.  I am truly not one for public displays of any kind. I don't hide the fact that I am a believer.  The issue is that  common to so many people, not wanting to be the center of attention.  I guess it's the 'fear of public speaking' syndrome.  But,  it's worse for me than some people I've known.  Is a more private baptism acceptable to God?   Nora

Answer
Hi Nora,

Thank you for this great question.  I am very sorry for my late response.  The Bible tells us that Baptism is a symbol of what you have embraced as your faith... the death burial, and resurrection of Jesus.  It is for all those watching to see what you are identifying with.

Romans 6:3-4
3  Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?  4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
The King James Version, (Cambridge: Cambridge) 1769.

There are instances in the Bible where not many people were watching, but it was not "private".  Remember, people are always watching you.  We must do all we can to point people to the truth, because to miss the truth is tragic.

2 Corinthians 5:11
11 Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men...
The King James Version, (Cambridge: Cambridge) 1769.

I suppose it is up to your pastor how he choses to do the baptism, but the nature of it points to some kind of a public statement.

I hope that this helps you.

In Christ
Pastor Don