Expert: Mrs. Priscilla Lyons - 2/2/2007

Question
how was baptists founded

Answer
Dear Colby,
   Thanks for writing.  If you need exact information and dates for an assignment, you should do an internet search for "Baptist denomination history" or something like that.  But my recollection is that after the initial Protestant Reformation of Catholicism by Martin Luther, adult baptism was a further correction by others who became known as Baptists.  
   The explanation of baptism in Romans 6 makes it clear that it must be a choice to surrender control of ourself (going under the water) to the resurrected life of Jesus (coming up out of the water), showing others our willingness to be servants of righteousness rather than slaves of sin.  This choice can only be made by someone old enough to repent of their sins and trust in the resurrected righteousness of Jesus for salvation, so baby baptism has no value for that child, according to the Bible.  It might help the parents surrender their parenting to God's control, but it doesn't give salvation to the baby.
   The Biblical example of Jesus coming up out of the water when He was baptized by John (Mark 1:9-10) is a Baptist fundamental doctrine (versus sprinkling).  Also, the word, baptism, means immersion, not sprinkling.
   I pray that your studies on this subject help you trust your Creator more to live for Him forever!
   Priscilla