August 2018

In continuation of the series of easily understandable articles I began in February to explain about Methodism through my ministerial experiences, below is August’s article. I hope these articles will help you better understand Methodism and confirm and develop your faithful identification as a Methodist. I look forward to hearing any questions and thoughts about Methodism and the article!

Q) What Is the Meaning of Baptism in the United Methodist Church?

Baptism is not the end of our faith journey. It is the beginning of our commitment to a faithful life, to live out our faith in the world, and to build up the body of Christ in the community of faith. Baptism is our response with faith, dying of ourselves and rising with Jesus Christ in our hearts. Through baptism our sins are cleansed and we begin to live “in grace and holiness through which God brings us into closer relationship with Jesus Christ.” Baptism is not sanctification: it is the beginning of sanctification.

We, as United Methodists, perform infant baptism. Infant baptism is based on the firm belief of United Methodists that in grace, “God prepares the way before we request, or even know that we need help.” Through this “gracious covenant” sign, infants also enter into a new life in Christ, as children of God and members of the “body” of Christ. At the moment of baptism, the presence of the congregation is this “body” of Christ that takes the responsibility to nurture the infant with her or his parents [sponsor]. Infant baptism often causes the misunderstanding that they must be re-baptized. Baptism cannot be repeated. Although we are disobedient and defiant to God, God is always faithful and remains faithful when we are disobedient and defiant.

John Wesley (the Founder of United Methodism) believed in original sin and he believed that it is important to perform infant baptism to get rid of this original sin. Though infant baptism is not about the faith of the infant, but about the faith of the parents and community, it is still an initiation of new birth and acceptance of Jesus Christ.

Blessings,

Pastor Kook Ho