I can't bring myself to walk down the aisle because I sing songs there often about "how I've seen the light" and all and being Saved already I don't want to look like a hypocrite. Advice?
2006-10-25 11:06:37 · 17 answers · asked by gilligan346 4 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Don't be embarassed. Everyone is a hypocrite from time to time. At least you are humble enough to admit it. I think that any true Christian will not judge you for simply being honest.
2006-10-25 11:10:00 · answer #1 · answered by Randy G 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
gilligan346,
These answers that I've seen I think it was the first three, weren't even trying to tell it right. Hold on . . . . .
EDIT: You are not a hypocrite, unless you are acting like you are not guilty of the same thing as what you are blaming someone else for. You are referring to the baptism by water. If you've "Seen the Light," then you've been baptised by the Spirit, which is more important, AND it does not mean that you are not saved. Get baptised by water as an outward declaration that you are separate from the world, a chosen one of God. Not because of what others might think, but because you are showing all your trust in God to resurrect you.
Do it. And be bold about it!
2006-10-25 11:10:21 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
You can call the Preacher, or someone else at the congregation that you trust and feel comfortable with telling them your ready to submit to baptism. It's often times difficult for most to take that step forward, because your admitting that your wrong and flawed and are in need of redemption. I'm sure no one would hold it against you to just call someone and ask if they'd arrange to baptize you, maybe with some of your closest friends or family there. No one ever said that you had to come forward during services, the middle of the night or early in the morning is just as good. God accepts you no matter when you decide to come to Him. As long as your doing it for the forgiveness of your past sins, your gonna be fine.
2006-10-25 11:11:48 · answer #3 · answered by stardust_dlw 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I guess it all depends on whose approval you are most interested in...the people in the congregation, or God's?
If it were me, I'd walk down the aisle anyhow, and not worry about whether or not somebody thought I was a "hypocrite". God is the one Who will judge my heart...and, if the truth were known, I'd bet there are a few in the audience who might be inspired by your action...perhaps you might inspire someone else to come forward. Wouldn't that be something special??
2006-10-25 11:15:04 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You choose when to be baptised, no one else. Salvation comes from accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior. Baptism is a show of faith of your salvation. But do it only when you are ready. I remember when I was baptised (at 25 years old) I was a little self-conscious about all these people watching me and being in the cold water and getting dunked, basically, lol. But I knew God would be pleased, because it was my choice and my time to show not just God, but everyone else there that I am willing to die to myself and live for Christ. As I learned more about our faith, I realized that baptism was an outward expression of your faith. It will naturally come to all believers at some time in their lives. And people will cheer, because now they TRULY know that you chose to die to your self, but live for Christ. No one will ever be able to take that experience away from you. You are not a hypocrite, dont fool yourself into thinking that you can judge yourself. Listen to God and dont squelch the Spirit. Peace.
2006-10-25 11:15:03 · answer #5 · answered by Jose 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Baptisim isnt about salvation. Baptisim is professing to God and everyone watching, that you are indeed saved and want to, and intend to lead a Christian life. When you accept salvation you ask Jesus into your heart and life and ask him for forgivness for your sins. You acknowledge he is Gods son, and He died for your sins. The 2 are totally different. You dont get baptisied UNTIL you have been saved. But let me also add, that baptisim WONT get you into heaven. No one comes to the Father, except through the Son....through salvation. If you are saved, and want to profess to everyone in your church, your family and friends...that you will lead a good Christian life, then baptism is a good way to do that. It however isnt necessary to be a Christian.
2006-10-25 11:19:02 · answer #6 · answered by Belle 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Honey, if you want to be Baptized by your Minister, then just ask.
Most are so pleased that you want to renew your faith.
Realize that you will spend a lifetime renewing your faith, and its part of the process. Each stage in your life have obstacle's your spiritual strength will help you each step of the way.
2006-10-25 11:11:06 · answer #7 · answered by Denise W 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I wasn't baptized until I was older. All my peers were baptized at, like 11-14 years old.
Go to it. Don't be self-conscious. It's between YOU and GOD. Everyone else is just a bystander.
2006-10-25 11:09:42 · answer #8 · answered by martino 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Water baptism isn't necessary its symbolism.If you want to be water baptized you should,talk to your pastor about it he can help you make a decision I dont think thats hypocritical at all If its important to you go for it!.God-Bless ya!
2006-10-25 11:09:54 · answer #9 · answered by Erica B 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Go ahead and do it! People should rejoice in the fact that you're truly making the committment. They may be surprised, but if they are truly friends of yours, they will encourage you the whole way!
2006-10-25 11:11:30 · answer #10 · answered by Courtney B 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋