General Assembly Resolution Concerning the Article of Faith on Baptism

XII. BAPTISM                                                                         12.

 

 XII. Baptism

                12. We believe that Christian baptism, commanded by our Lord, is a sacrament and means of grace signifying acceptance of the benefits of the atonement of Jesus Christ, to be administered to believers and declarative of their faith in Jesus Christ as their Savior; and full purpose of obedience in holiness and righteousness.

                Baptism being a symbol of the new covenant, young children may be baptized, upon request of parents or guardians who shall give assurance for them of necessary Christian training.

                Baptism may be administered by sprinkling, pouring, or immersion, according to the choice of the applicant.                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

FOR THE FOLLOWING REASONS:

1.  This change makes clear that we are Wesleyan in our understanding of the sacraments as outward signs of an inward grace and means whereby we receive the same.

 2.  Such a change makes the article consistent with other Manual paragraphs that identify sacraments as means of grace, viz., 21.1(7) & 514.9.

3.  Such a change is consistent with statements found in various Nazarene theological writings.

4.  Such a change is consistent with our Methodists heritage.

5.  Such a change is consistent with John Wesley’s understanding.

6.  Such a change brings us closer in alignment with our closest denominational partners, The Wesleyan Church and the Free Methodist Church, along with our other sisters and brothers throughout World Methodism.