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Same can be said for adults who get baptized. What happens after their adult baptism and they later become an unbeliever. The only difference is that the older personal chose to be baptized and the baby had no choice. But the baby grows up to be an adult so if they remain the same religion, then they consent to it. That is what Confirmation is in the Catholic religion. It means we are still on board at 13 years old, the same age a boy is a man in Judaism.
I get that, but there is something to be said about being old enough when one is baptized to be able to appreciate its significance and to be able to remember the experience later on. Besides, the Bible does seem to require faith in Jesus Christ and repentance of one's sins before being baptized. Of course, I realize that Catholics believe in Original Sin, which I do not. Consequently, I see no need for baptism until a person is mature enough to understand why he is being baptized and what effect it will have on him.
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I know a few born again Christians. I have also had quire a few try to convert me in my lifetime. My observations of them are that they nearly all hit rock bottom at some times, usually because of drugs. They all say that while hitting rock bottom that Jesus came to them to turn their life around, which I am not so sure is reality but could most likely be part of their drug induced trip. They are not very holy in that they still drink excessively, don’t tell a cashier if they received more money in error, take advantage of broken vending machines, etc. One told me that they cannot have any alcohol at all. When I pointed out that Jesus drank wine at the last supper, he said that “everyone knows that he drank in fermented grapes. He said I was going to hell when I went to my catholics confession. They all say we are going to hell if we do not turn ourselves over to their religion. At least, this is based on every one I knew. I think they are nuts for the most part. If not, I am going to hell.
I get that, but there is something to be said about being old enough when one is baptized to be able to appreciate its significance and to be able to remember the experience later on. Besides, the Bible does seem to require faith in Jesus Christ and repentance of one's sins before being baptized. Of course, I realize that Catholics believe in Original Sin, which I do not. Consequently, I see no need for baptism until a person is mature enough to understand why he is being baptized and what effect it will have on him.
Yeah, I'm totally with you on that.
But if the adult does not become born again, that means he has accepted the religion his parents chose for him. He is free to become born again if he wishes, but usually does not. Even if you discount the original baby baptism, the confirmation supports it and not becoming born again later in life supports the original baptism all the more.
But if the adult does not become born again, that means he has accepted the religion his parents chose for him. He is free to become born again if he wishes, but usually does not. Even if you discount the original baby baptism, the confirmation supports it and not becoming born again later in life supports the original baptism all the more.
Uh huh... Well, to each his own. I think we're going to have to agree to disagree on this point.
I have a question for those of you who identify as born-again Christians. I would like to know how the experience of being "born again" has changed the way in which you interact with your fellow human beings, i.e. your fellow born-again Christians, all other Christians, non-Christians who are devout in their own beliefs, and non-religious or non-believing individuals?
In your opinion, has being born again made you a better person, or does it just ensure your salvation?
Being born again of water and the Spirit has made me a much better person in every way over the years. Sometimes, I barely recognize myself. The Holy Spirit has truly made me a new creation. I don’t attack people who disagree with what I believe. However, I do challenge their beliefs in a respectful manner if I believe they are wrong, and I use the Scriptures to do it. Being born again is something Jesus commanded. Obedience to His gospel assures me of my salvation. Hebrews 5:9 says He is the author of salvation to all who obey.
Being born again of water and the Spirit has made me a much better person in every way over the years. Sometimes, I barely recognize myself. The Holy Spirit has truly made me a new creation. I don’t attack people who disagree with what I believe. However, I do challenge their beliefs in a respectful manner if I believe they are wrong, and I use the Scriptures to do it. Being born again is something Jesus commanded. Obedience to His gospel assures me of my salvation. Hebrews 5:9 says He is the author of salvation to all who obey.
Welcome to the forum, MissKate. I agree that once a person is born again, he should be able to notice a change within himself. The biggest change, I think, is that negative feelings for other people should go away, as we realize that we are all brothers and sisters and all beloved children of God. If that change doesn't take place, I would question that being born again even happened.
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