1) My baptism is an outward sign of my identification w/Christ! (and my entrance into covenant relationship w/him) 2) I would do it again! Why? See #1! 3) No, it doesn't. To be baptized as an adult means the life (heart) change occurs just prior to baptism. To be baptized as an infant means heart/life change could occur many years later. (Or not, depending on how the parents raise the child. The idea of infant baptism is that parents raise their children in their faith, thus the children of believers live differently than children of nonbelievers.) 4) The fruits of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23) are the visible evidence...at least, that is my hope and desire! 5) See #4. I'm also always ready with an answer for anyone who asks me about my faith/hope in Christ. There are other signs too, such as the bible memory cards I frequently carry, or the bible I read on the bus, the "pro-life" license tags on my car, my excitement about going to church and ministering at the assisted living ctr. etc. 6) Actions first, then words! (1 Jn 3:18) 7) Changing me gradually, as I live my faith and grow in God's grace. Great questions!!!!!! |