Baptism by immersion, as practiced by Lighthouse Baptist Church, is rooted in a literal interpretation of the Bible. It holds theological significance as an act of obedience, a public profession of faith, and an outward demonstration of an inward transformation. Below is an in-depth explanation of its key aspects:

1. Biblical Foundation

Lighthouse Baptist Church emphasizes the authority of Scripture, viewing the Bible as the sole rule for faith and practice. Baptism by immersion is seen as the only biblically prescribed mode of baptism, as evidenced by:

• The Example of Jesus: In Matthew 3:13–17, Jesus is baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. The Greek word used for baptism, baptizó, means "to immerse" or "to dip."

• The Early Church: Acts 8:36–39 describes Philip baptizing the Ethiopian eunuch in water. The phrase “they went down into the water” is interpreted as indicating immersion.

2. Theological Significance

Baptism by immersion is not viewed as a means of salvation but as a symbolic act with profound spiritual meaning. Lighthouse Baptist Church rejects infant baptism, insisting it is for believers who have consciously placed their faith in Jesus Christ.

Symbolism of Immersion

• Death, Burial, and Resurrection: Romans 6:3–5 links baptism to the believer's identification with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. Immersion symbolizes dying to sin, being buried with Christ, and rising to walk in newness of life.

• Cleansing from Sin: Immersion signifies the washing away of sin, not as an act of cleansing itself but as a testimony to the inner work of salvation (Acts 22:16).

3. Mode of Baptism

We believe full immersion is significant for several reasons:

• Literal Meaning of the Word: The Greek baptizó unambiguously means to immerse.

• Biblical Examples: Every instance of baptism in the New Testament involves water and suggests immersion (e.g., John 3:23, which mentions “much water”).

• Symbolism: Only immersion fully represents the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ.

4. Who Can Be Baptized?

Biblical doctrine specifies several prerequisites for baptism:

• Believers Only: Baptism follows a personal confession of faith in Jesus Christ. Infants and non-believers are not baptized.

• After Salvation: Baptism is a step of obedience after conversion, not a requirement for salvation (Ephesians 2:8–9).

• Local Church Authority: Baptism is administered by the authority of the local church, emphasizing its role in church membership and accountability.

5. The Purpose of Baptism

Though not for salvation, baptism is considered essential for several reasons:

• Obedience to Christ: Jesus commanded His disciples to baptize believers (Matthew 28:19–20).

• Public Testimony: Baptism is a declaration of faith and a visual representation of the gospel to the church and the world.

• Church Membership: Lighthouse Baptist Church views baptism as a prerequisite for joining the local congregation.

6. Practical Observance

In an independent Baptist church, the baptismal ceremony typically involves:

• A Baptismal Tank or Body of Water: The candidate is fully immersed in water by the pastor or an authorized leader.

• A Testimony of Faith: Before baptism, the individual often shares a testimony of their salvation.

• A Formula: The baptizer typically says, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,” following the pattern of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19).

7. Rejection of Other Modes

We reject sprinkling or pouring as valid forms of baptism, seeing from Scripture that they do not align with biblical practice or the symbolic significance of immersion. They also reject baptism as a sacrament that imparts grace, emphasizing instead its role as an ordinance that symbolizes a prior act of saving faith.

Summary

Baptism by immersion is a deeply meaningful ordinance commanded by Christ. It serves as an act of obedience, a public declaration of faith, and a vivid representation of the believer’s union with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. By adhering strictly to the biblical text, independent Baptists uphold immersion as the only valid mode of baptism, underscoring their commitment to biblical authority and doctrinal purity.