Vintage Church Q & A

Each Sunday during the Vintage Church series you will have the opportunity to text in your questions regarding Jimmy’s message.
To see how this works click here.

Below are brief answers to those questions provided by our pastoral staff.

BAPTISM

If someone doesn’t get baptized and they die but they believe in God would they burn in hell?

Absolutely not.

When a person repents of their sin and trusts Christ for their salvation (i.e. “gets saved” or “becomes a Christian”), they are immediately sealed with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13) and permanently adopted (Romams 8:14-17) into God’s family as his children.

Baptism, according to the Bible, is the first step of obedience for a Christian. It does not save anyone. Therefore, if a believer in Jesus died without being baptized, they would still experience eternal life with Jesus in the New Heavens and New Earth.

Why use CE rather than AD? I've never seen that anywhere but here.

CE stands for “common era.” The word common simply refers to the Gregorian calendar, which is the most frequently used calendar. CE is rapidly replacing AD as the manner in which historians refer to world history events.

Since infants cant believe, if they did do they go to hell? If not, then doesn’t this support the idea that Jesus isn’t the only way?

No. The Bible clearly does not teach that infants go to hell. We believe that babies who die go straight to heaven to be with Jesus.

This does not, however, undermine the exclusivity of the gospel (that Jesus is the only way to God). Children, like adults, are sinners by nature (Psalm 51; Romans 3) and in need of a Rescuer. Children that die in infancy are ONLY saved through the atoning death of Christ on the cross on their behalf.

For more on this issue, see the article “Why We Believe Children Who Die Go to Heaven,” written by Albert Mohler & Danny Akin.

If I have accepted Christ, but was baptized as a kid, do I need to be baptized again?

It depends on the order. If you accepted Christ as a child and were subsequently baptized by immersion, then the answer would be no. However, if you were baptized before you became a believer, then you need to be baptized as a believer.

Baptism is a “one-time event.” If you were baptized before you became a Christ follower, then you simply got wet!
What’s the Hebrew word for baptize?

Baptize is transliterated from the Greek word baptizo, which meant “to submerge or dip.” There is no Old Testament Hebrew equivalent, since OT believers did not practice baptism yet.

What about being baptized more than once...is that wrong or why do people do that?

Baptism is intended to be a “one-time event” for believers after they trust Christ for salvation. While it is not necessarily “wrong,” there is no biblical category for multiple baptisms. Baptism is to be conducted as a profession of faith before a church body as a symbol of one’s identification with Christ and entry into the faith community.

Was Pastor Jimmy Scroggins baptized as a baby and when did he accept Jesus in to his heart?

No. Pastor Jimmy became a Christ follower as a child. He was baptized as a believer by immersion shortly thereafter in a church in North Florida.

Is baptism needed for salvation?

No. Baptism is not necessary for salvation. However, there was no such thing in the New Testament as an “unbaptized Christian.”

If God places such importance on outward expression of belief (baptism), should we also be expressive during our praise and worship time?

Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are the two “ordinances” prescribed by Christ for the church to observe as tangible expressions of the Gospel. While it is certainly appropriate to respond to God during worship with outward expressions (raising hands, clapping, etc), there is no connection between these two items in the Scriptures.

As far as baptizing goes, does it have to be done by a pastor? What if you are a missionary in a remote village - does that count?

The New Testament does not give specific instructions for who should baptize. At our church, the pastors baptize for practical reasons (multiple services, continuity) as representatives of the church body.

While the Bible does teach that baptism is to be done under the authority of a local church, there are certainly extenuating circumstances where this may not be feasible or desirable (i.e. persecution, access to water, etc). In those cases, the church has historically made exceptions.

Explain why we use immersion as a symbol of Christ being buried and risen.

Romans 6:1-4 gives a clear presentation of the symbolism of believer’s baptism by immersion. As a person is immersed under the water, they identify with the death and burial of Christ, symbolizing a dying to an old way of life. As a person is raised out of the water, they identify with the resurrection of Christ, symbolizing a rising to a new way of living (in Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit).

For more on this issue, listen to the podcast from the pastor’s message on baptism.

What about telling a child that is six who has asked no because the church say she is too young?

At FBC West Palm, we hold a New Believers’ Class for children who have completed the second grade. During these four weeks, our Childrens’ Ministry Staff teaches and reinforces basic doctrines concerning salvation and baptism according to Scripture in a way that is understandable and age appropriate. We partner with parents through communication, handouts, and even class participation to affirm the child’s understanding and talk about the process and next steps for them to take.

We firmly believe, however, that children have the capacity to accept Christ much earlier than the second grade. There is no “designated” or set age for children to come to an understanding of their need of Jesus Christ as their Savior. If your child is too young to attend the New Believers’ Class according to our guideline, we would encourage you to do the following:

  • Seize the opportunity as a “teachable moment”
  • Explain to your child that baptism is to be practiced as the church recommends
  • Acknowledge their step toward God and sensitivity to spiritual desire by making an appointment with the Children’s Minister
  • Reaffirm or celebrate this date each year as their “spiritual birthday” affirming that they are in God’s family and allow them to tell their family members what it means to them
  • Assure them of their salvation and security in God’s family and eternal life, reinforcing that baptism is a symbol it does not “save” them or make sure they are going to heaven
  • Point them towards the New Believer’s class in a positive way as something for them to look forward to, a marker in their spiritual journey

In our experience, children tend to respond based on how we explain things to them.  We encourage you as parents to lead them as you know them best and can guide them to respond positively and eagerly to the things of God.  If we are negative or disappointed, they will sense that and tend to respond the same way and possibly be skeptical and unsure about the things of God.  Be their cheerleader!

CHURCH MEMBERSHIP

What do I have to do to become member?

You can join FBC West Palm Beach in several ways:

Church Letter
You are a member of another church in the network of Southern Baptist Churches and are choosing to transfer your church membership and join this church family.

Statement of Faith
You are giving your personal “Statement of Faith” that you have already accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and have been baptized according to Scripture (by immersion and after accepting Christ).

Profession of Faith and Baptism
You are giving your personal statement that you have accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, and desire to take the next step in believer’s baptism.
Then, complete your step to membership!

First Connection Class
Attend this class required for membership. You will learn how we express worship through what we believe and practice, and how to get connected through small groups and service. You will take a tour of the facilities and see all the ministry areas as well as learn the 108 year history of our church and the vision that has moved us through the years.

What is on the membership card? No details given. What am I committing to?

The membership card contains basic information concerning your testimony of conversion (how you became a Christian), baptism, and previous (if any) church involvement. FBC staff will help you fill this out at the First Connections Class should you desire membership.

What is the verse reference for "in the NT, believers weren't considered part of ‘The Church' unless they were attached to 'A’ Church?”

There is no proof-text verse that actually says it exactly like that. However, we can see clearly from the book of Acts that believers were added to the church immediately after they repented of sin and believed in Jesus Christ (Acts 2:41; 4:4; 5:14; 6:7; 9:31; 11:24; 16:5) . There was no such thing in the NT as a Christian who was not attached to a local church. Additionally, Paul’s epistles were written to churches, giving them instructions on how believers were to build up and edify the local church (Eph. 4:11-13).

What if I’m a seasonal resident or a college student who isn't from West Palm Beach?

If West Palm Beach is not your primary residence, we have a membership category called “Associate Membership” that is available. Associate Membership allows people to fully participate as a member of FBC West Palm Beach, while not having to transfer their membership letter from your other church home.

The requirements of Associate Membership are exactly the same as regular membership:
• A personal testimony of your faith in Jesus Christ
• Believers’ baptism by immersion
• Attendance at the First Connections Class

For more information about an Associate Membership, please contact us at info@fbcwpb.org and we would be happy to set up a time to meet with you.

Acts 2 talks of the first church. What church was Jesus talking about in Matthew 18:17?

In Matthew 18, Jesus was talking about building the universal/invisible church. His promise to Peter was that as people came to faith in Christ and confessed that Jesus was Lord, the Church (all believers at all times in all places) would continue to grow despite opposition from Satan and his demons.

Jesus’ statement does seem to encompass the local/visible church as well, as they are the tangible expressions of the universal church on this earth.

LORD’S SUPPER

A friend of mine is not Christian and wants to learn all about it. She came to church with me last week, but I am not quite sure where to start from her.

Every week at FBC West Palm Beach we have a spectrum of people at different points in their spiritual journey in attendance. We think this is a great thing as we want as many people to hear about Jesus as possible. We are also encouraged to see people so excited about Jesus, the gospel, and the church that they are investing in friends and inviting them to church. We would encourage you to do the following:

  • Share your personal journey of faith – showing someone how Jesus has changed your life is one of the most powerful tools you have
  • Ask spiritual questions – what do they think about God? Are they finding satisfaction and fulfillment in life? What do they think it takes to connect with God?
  • Pray for them
  • Invite them to a bible study, small group, or social event where they can meet other Christians and learn more about God through the Bible
  • For more information, see the following articles on How the Share the Gospel and How to Share Your Testimony

What does Eucharist mean?

From the Greek word eucharisto (I give thanks), the term has been used in Roman Catholic and Anglican traditions to celebrate the death, resurrection, and future coming of Christ on behalf of his people. Protestant traditions usually prefer to speak of the celebration as the Lord’s Supper, Communion, or the Lord’s Table.

Do Christians need to take the Lord's Supper?

While the Lord’s Supper is certainly not mandated for salvation, the New Testament does encourage churches and believers to celebrate the Lord’s Supper as a family meal (Matt. 26:26-29; Mk. 14:22-25; Lk. 22:18-20; 1 Cor. 11:23-25). The Lord’s Supper signifies the believer’s union with Christ, identification with a local church family, ongoing repentance of sin, and proclaims the gospel to others who are not yet Christians. To refuse to take the Lord’s Supper, it seems, would be and admission that those realities are not true in one’s own life.

Why is communion traditionally done on the first Sunday of the month?

There are no specific instructions given in the New Testament regarding how frequently a church must offer the Lord’s Supper. At FBC West Palm Beach, we have decided that offering the Lord’s Supper once every 4-6 weeks on Sunday morning allows us to plan our services so that we will have sufficient time to explain the process for taking it and to organize the logistics of serving it to thousands of people in 3 services. We also offer the Lord’s Supper at our quarterly family conferences on Sunday nights.

If the body of Christ is one big family, why is it then only appropriate to take communion within the family of the church you are a member of and is it okay to take communion with our immediate family or in a small group.

As Pastor Jimmy mentioned in his message on the Lord’s Supper, we welcome people who have been baptized as believers by immersion and are members in good standing with their own church to take Communion with us. Although the body of Christ is one big family, communion was given to local churches to be celebrated as a family meal. In fact, one of the ways churches are instructed to discipline their members is to exclude them from participating in the Lord’s Supper, thus defining who is “in” and who is “out” of fellowship with the family.

Communion should always be administered under the authority of local church leadership. Therefore, we would discourage people from taking it at home with their family, or in a small group disconnected from the larger church body. Again, this defeats the purpose of the Lord’s Supper as a family meal and symbol of gospel unity.

In the Old Testament for the Israelites was the Passover the only time they had a family meal?

The Jewish people had a number of feasts and celebrations including the Passover (see Leviticus 23), but the Feast of Booths was the only one where food is specifically mentioned (Leviticus 23:39).

Where in the 1 Corinthians passage does it say that you have to be baptized in order to partake or is it assumed?

This specific passage does not mention baptism as a perquisite for taking the Lord’s Supper, but it is assumed since it was taken in the context of the local church at Corinth (which was comprised of believers who had been baptized – see 1 Corinthians 1:14-16).

CHURCH DISCIPLINE

What is the reference for the verse in Proverbs Jimmy talked about today, "wounds from a friend can be trusted"?

Proverbs 27:6 - Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.(NIV)

What if my brother in Christ is addicted to video games - do I confront?

As we discussed Sunday, you need to exercise caution, discernment, and loads of grace as you try to determine whether or not to confront someone about a sin issue. In this particular case, you might want to consider the following:

  • Playing video games is not, in and of itself, sinful.
  • What do you mean by addicted? There is a big difference between 2 hours and 12 hours per day.
  • However, there are large numbers of males between the ages of 18-35 who spend a significant amount of hours playing video games. This issue is a growing concern for parents and young men alike.
  • Have you examined your own motives and stewardship habits? Try to ask why this is bothering you so much? Is it motivated by love or judgmental personal preference? Are you the best person to have this conversation with him?
  • What is the sin issue? Video gaming is part of several broader issues concerning stewardship, use of technology, isolation from biblical community, etc.
  • Seek wise counsel from others to see if your thoughts are legitimate.
  • If you decide to talk to him about this issue, remember how you do it is just as important as what you say. A spirit of grace, humility, and love will go a long way in winning your brother.

CRUCIFIXION/RESURRECTION/MISSION

Why don’t we recite the Lord’s Prayer in our church?

Jesus explained the Lord’s Prayer to the disciples as a pattern for authentic prayer (Matthew 6:9-13; Luke 11:1-4). In this context, Jesus is contrasting superficial, hypocritical forms of worship (prayer, fasting, almsgiving) with genuine, heartfelt worship. Consequently, he was not necessarily giving us a set formula to pray everywhere and at all times, but rather was modeling for his disciples the kind of prayer that pleases God.

We do not necessarily have a biblical reason for not praying the Lord’s Prayer in our services. While has been the tradition of many good churches throughout the centuries that love Jesus, we only have a set amount of time for our services and cannot possibly incorporate everything that we would like to include every week. We will, at times, publicly and corporately read Scripture together as a part of our Sunday morning worship services.

Why don’t we use the sign of the cross to bless ourselves in our church?

The Sign of the Cross has been utilized by different traditions of Christianity as a form of blessing or prayer. Since the Protest Reformation in the 16th century, many evangelical traditions have chosen not to employ its use either privately or publicly. There is nothing in the Bible that encourages Christians to make the sign of the cross, though this has certainly been practiced by Christians at different times in church history.

Is Judas in heaven?

There is no definitive biblical answer to this question. Scholars disagree as to whether or not Judas was a genuine Christ-follower, though the biblical evidence seems to indicate that he was not. If Judas repented of his sin and trusted Jesus before he committed suicide, then the answer to that question would be the same as for anyone: yes. If Judas died in his sin without repenting and exercising faith in Jesus, then the answer would be no. Only God knows the heart of Judas in this matter.

In reference to the woman who had a discharge of blood for 12 years that touched Jesus (Luke 8), does that mean she had her period for 12 years?

The text doesn’t clearly indicate the exact nature of her condition. Clearly, she had some kind of biological condition which caused her to hemorrhage uncontrollably. According to the Levitical laws (Leviticus 15:25), this type of bleeding would have made her an outcast and religiously unclean in the eyes of the Jewish community.

Can you get to heaven if you are divorced?

Yes. Salvation is a gift that is offered freely to anyone who will turn from their sin (repentance) and trust Jesus Christ alone (faith in his death, burial, resurrection) to rescue them. This invitation extends to all people at all times regardless of their race, heritage, creed, socioeconomic status, or life circumstances.