Originally Posted by Bassmasa

I don't really know what camp I fall into in terms of evangelical v. protestant, but know that baptism as we traditionally know it is only a symbol of inward conversion. A person can be dunked, dribbled on, squirted, sprayed, or whatever without true salvation. The physical act of baptism is obedience to Christ's commands, but not necessary for salvation (see the thief on the cross). However, it is a very powerful symbol to the public about where you stand and who you stand for. I don't mean to belittle the act as it is extremely important, but it's more important that we realize baptism itself DOES NOT SAVE; only the inward confession to Christ and acceptance as our Savior saves our souls.

But, there are plenty of folks who have been baptized and have never truly been saved through Christ. Many believe that the physical act of baptism saves, which is completely false.

I guess from my personal experience, I was baptized as an infant. As I grew older and accepted Christ during college, I originally believed that my previous baptism was sufficient. I know 100% that I would have entered heaven without another baptism, but after reading His word and praying about the decision, it was clear that I needed to be baptised again. Not only for me to show the world and be held accountable, but also as a witness to others who knew me in the past. My first baptism was ceremonial and had no effect on me whatsoever, but the second one was very important to my development as a Christian.

I wouldn't focus on the protestant v. evangelical monickers. Don't let the definitions of men distract you from what the Bible tells us clearly.

Originally Posted by Bassmasa

I don't really know what camp I fall into in terms of evangelical v. protestant, but know that baptism as we traditionally know it is only a symbol of inward conversion. A person can be dunked, dribbled on, squirted, sprayed, or whatever without true salvation. The physical act of baptism is obedience to Christ's commands, but not necessary for salvation (see the thief on the cross). However, it is a very powerful symbol to the public about where you stand and who you stand for. I don't mean to belittle the act as it is extremely important, but it's more important that we realize baptism itself DOES NOT SAVE; only the inward confession to Christ and acceptance as our Savior saves our souls.

But, there are plenty of folks who have been baptized and have never truly been saved through Christ. Many believe that the physical act of baptism saves, which is completely false.

I guess from my personal experience, I was baptized as an infant. As I grew older and accepted Christ during college, I originally believed that my previous baptism was sufficient. I know 100% that I would have entered heaven without another baptism, but after reading His word and praying about the decision, it was clear that I needed to be baptised again. Not only for me to show the world and be held accountable, but also as a witness to others who knew me in the past. My first baptism was ceremonial and had no effect on me whatsoever, but the second one was very important to my development as a Christian.

I wouldn't focus on the protestant v. evangelical monickers. Don't let the definitions of men distract you from what the Bible tells us clearly.

Originally Posted by Boanerges

If you don't mind me sharing this I was saved , walking and serving the Lord for about 7 years when I was driving down the highway and I asked the Lord to pour out His Holy Spirit on me as on the day of Pentecost and He did - it was an awesome expierience as I felt His power being poured out on me- my life and my relationship with God has never been the same!