Is it true you don't baptize people?

[lighthousekid]

And if so why?

 

[Dantooine]

And if so why?

I've always thought that most (if not all) officers (pastors) will baptize people [with water] if those people ask them to.

I don't think that the Army is anti-sacraments, but more along the lines that they are unneccessary for salvation and healthy Christian living. They support those who feel that it helps in their journey ... for example, at my old church they often did communion...

If I'm right, I think that around the time of the Army's birth most churches placed too much value on the sacramental act itself, rather than on what it *symbolised*.

For example, you've probably heard some say that baptism is essential to salvation, that the power and presence of God is in the bread and wine that one eats and drinks, and so on. The Army chooses to instead focus on the fact that by Jesus' sacrifice Christians have the power and Spirit of God in them regardless of what one does or does not do (in regards to the sacraments). They believe that repentance and belief in Jesus as the Christ who died for our sins are all that is necessary for salvation.

Other Salvationists may be able to help you further...

 

[Evangelina]

G'day! Good answer above... we also have an FAQ section in our Resources thread.