What Did Jesus Say About Baptism

What Does the Bible Say About Baptism? Six Texts We Cannot Ignore

When it comes to comfort, “there is no greater consolation on earth than baptism,” observed Martin Luther, the renowned Protestant reformer. Luther is renowned for his battle against sin and Satan, which he conducted by preaching to himself, “I am baptized! “I have been baptized!” Luther was not making the assertion that he was saved just because he had been baptized. Rather, he had a correct understanding of the wonder and beauty of baptism. It was his belief that baptism was a visible, external act that served as an objective pointer to the unseen, interior truth of new birth and the faith that enabled us to be saved only on the basis of our faith in Christ.

As a baptist, though, I can’t help but notice that there was something lacking from Luther’s self-reminder of his baptism.

Although he himself was baptized as a child, it was not in reaction to a public declaration of his own religious beliefs, but rather in response to the faith of his parents, who hoped that their religion would be manifested in their newborn son eventually.

How much more impactful would he have felt if he had been able to recollect his baptism in its entirety?

Repent, Believe, Be Baptized

When it comes to his image of baptism, Luther is not the only one who has much to be desired. God has infused his sacraments with meaning that goes beyond the obvious. The “visible words” of the ordinances teem with depths of wonder and power, into which we grow and mature as a result of their presence in our lives. Christians of all denominations may look forward to the hues and textures of significance that will be revealed in Christian baptism that we have yet to realize. In order to begin, let me state at the start that godly evangelical pastors, academics, churches, and seminaries are divided on this issue.

It is difficult to keep track of all of the concerns and sophisticated discussions, and I have a great deal of admiration for many of my wonderful infant-baptist brothers and sisters.

However, because we believe in the Bible, we do not dismiss the simple and uncompromising interpretation of the Scriptures that the Bible provides.

We do, in fact, delve further, and we do not ignore what is clear. Consider six clear biblical verses on baptism that cannot be ignored by any Christian understanding of baptism.

Mark 1:5

They were coming from all over Judea and all over Jerusalem, confessing their sins, and being baptized by him in the Jordan River, according to the Scriptures. Baptism is always associated with repentance and trust in the person who is being baptized in the New Testament. John’s baptism, which served as a model for Christian baptism, was openly, frequently, and irrevocably linked to repentance. “They were baptized in the Jordan River, admitting their sins,” the Bible says (Matthew 3:6). “I baptize you with water for the forgiveness of your sins,” John declared (Matthew 3:11).

Once this is done, Acts makes a point of linking Christian baptism to repentance and faith throughout the narrative of the early church:

• The Bible says, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.” “Those who received his wordwere baptized” (Acts 2:41)
• “When they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.” “When they believed Philip as he preached good news about the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they The apostle Simon himself came to believe, and after being baptized, he remained with Philip” (Acts 8:12–13)

Acts 18:8

Crispus, the governor of the synagogue, as well as his entire household, came to believe in the Lord. And many of the Corinthians who heard Paul believed and were baptized as a result of his words. Infant-baptists frequently use the “home baptisms” reported in Acts 16:33, 18:8, and 1 Corinthians 1:16 as evidence that any infants living in these families would have been baptized if they were there. However, as John Piper points out, there is no instance of a newborn being baptized in the Bible at all.

1. As an example, in the instance of the Philippian jailer (Acts 16:32), Luke directs us away from making this assumption by stating that Paul first preached the message of the Lord “to those who were inhouse,” before baptizing those who had gathered there.
2. Belief in Jesus was required: “Crispus, the president of the synagogue, believed in the Lord, and so did his entire household,” says the Bible.
3. Although the believer-baptist debate extends much beyond such passages in the Gospels and Acts, this is where we frequently begin.
4. Four key passages in the apostolic letters connect baptism and faith in a way that is unsurpassed in the infant-baptist debate for their clarity and straightforwardness.

Galatians 3:26–27

Through faith in Christ Jesus, you are all adopted sons of God. According to the number of you who were baptized into Christ, you have put on Christ. Paul makes the assumption that those who have been baptized and those who have saving faith are both members of the same group of people (with no sanctioned outliers). Faith and baptism are intertwined in the activity of the church as well as in the personal experience of each Christian. Baptism should be administered to those who have demonstrated saving faith.

Those who have been baptized, on the other hand, have given voice to their saving faith. There is no room or provision given here, or anywhere else, for those who would have been baptized without making a confession of faith, in anticipation of a future declaration of faith.

Colossians 2:11–12

You were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ, after having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead.

1. One of the most persuasive reasons for infant baptism is that, just as circumcision was offered to every man born into God’s first-covenant people, baptism should be administered to every child (male and female) born into believing families of God’s new-covenant people, the church.
2. The “circumcision of Christ” refers to his being cut off for our sins on the cross, and the “circumcision made without hands,” which Paul applies to every believer, is spiritual circumcision, which is new birth (as commentator Doug Moo points out, “the connections.
3. Paul anticipates that the new-covenant inauguration ritual of water baptism will have been performed on the part of these new-covenant persons who have been born again and circumcised in heart.
4. Colossians 2:11–12, like Galatians 3:26–27, presupposes active and declared faith in all those who have been baptized, not only those who have been born into it.

Romans 6:3–4

You are probably unaware of the fact that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus have also been baptized into his death. In order for us to share in Christ’s resurrection from the dead, we were buried with him in baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too may walk in newness of life. Like the believers in Colossians 2, those who have been buried with Jesus in his death and resurrected to new life in him are referred to as the baptized.

It is our “old self,” which we were born into (Ephesians 2:1–3), that has been crucified (Romans 6:6) or put off (Ephesians 2:1–3).

And Paul asserts that this is true of “all of us,” that is, of all those who have been baptized.

1 Peter 3:21

As a result, this scripture is frequently avoided by both believers and infant baptismists, because it raises the question of what is meant by the phrase “baptism. saves you.” Nevertheless, if we interpret the text correctly, we will both clear up any doubt and find additional proof that baptism is nothing less than an external representation of subjective repentance and trust (new birth) that is already present (rather than merely hoped for) in the baptizee. It is through the resurrection of Jesus Christ that baptism.

1. Peter understands that we would be taken aback by the statement “baptism.
2. No, he does not imply that the outward act of baptism, “which is a cleansing of filth from one’s body,” has any salvific efficacy in and of itself.
3. During baptism, the objective and outward demonstration of the subjective and internal “appeal to God for a good conscience” takes place.
4. Upon baptism, Peter’s message comes together, expressing in the believer a saving, spiritually newborn condition of heart that is expressed via baptism.

Plausible or Biblical?

In addition to the instances in the tales and the didactic statements of the apostles linking baptism to faith, we base our case on theological and covenantal considerations. I’ll save it for the next post, but there’s something appropriate about delaying the discussion of those points for a little while longer. The ability to give due consideration to the verifiable teaching of the New Testament is essential to the credobaptist perspective. The most persuasive infant-baptist voices are often those that are admirably plausible, rational, and consistent in their reasoning.

While we must go on to the deeper theological and covenantal arguments in due order, we must not skip over the simple, obstinate, and evident interpretations of the New Testament passages that are there in the textual evidence.

Bible Verses About Baptism

The Most Inspirational Bible Verses on Baptism Baptism is a significant milestone in a believer’s relationship with Jesus Christ. Water immersion baptism, in which a believer makes a public profession of their faith, is mentioned in the Bible as a practice. Jesus set the standard for water baptism by his own example! This passage should steer you in the right direction and help you grasp what it means to be baptized in the Christian faith if you are wondering what it means to be baptized. “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit,” Peter instructed them (Acts 2:38) Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a means of removing filth from the body, but as a means of appealing to God for a clear conscience, as a result of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The Holy Spirit’s Power: A Scripture and Prayer Guide is a resource for anyone who want to learn more about the power of the Holy Spirit.

in order to become more aware of the Holy Spirit’s presence in your life! In this collection of scriptures, you can find further significant Bible texts concerning baptism: Photograph courtesy of Unsplash/kaleb Tapp

Is baptism necessary for salvation?

A visual indicator that serves as your first act of testimony is what you are looking for. You are declaring to the world what God has done for you via baptism. More information may be found at: Get your free Bible study guide on baptism by clicking here. “Or do you not realize that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were also baptized into His death?” asks the apostle Paul in Romans 6:3-5. In order that we might walk in newness of life, we were buried with Him in baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was resurrected from the dead by the glory of the Father, we might also live in newness of life.” Because, if we have been connected together in the likeness of His death, we will undoubtedly be united together in the likeness of His resurrection, knowing that our old man was crucified with Him, that the body of sin may be destroyed, and that we would no longer be slaves to sin.

The reason is that he who died has been set free from sin.”

The meaning of baptism

In the early church, baptism was done by immersion because it represented death, burial, and resurrection, all of which were symbolic of the Christian faith. The term “baptizo” literally translates as “to immerse.” It represented the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ, as well as the death of the old sinner in the person who is being baptized. It is a water baptism.

Jesus’ teaching on baptism

We also understand that baptism is a righteous act to perform. Jesus was baptized despite the fact that He was sinless. “It states in Matthew 3:13-15, “. When Jesus arrived, John attempted to stop Him by pleading, “I need to be baptized by You; are You coming to me?” “Permit it to be so now,” Jesus said, explaining that it was appropriate for him to fulfill all righteousness in this way at this time. Then he gave Him permission.” Christians were even instructed by Jesus to go forth and baptize everyone.

In Mark 16:15-16, Jesus says the following concerning baptism: ” Go throughout all of the world and proclaim the gospel to every creature you come into contact with.

Are we saved by baptism?

You will observe that the Bible makes a connection between baptism and salvation. It is not the act of baptism, however, that rescues you from your sins. Ephesians 2:8-9 makes it quite plain that our efforts do not contribute to our redemption. Even by being baptized, we cannot earn our way into heaven. You must, however, ask yourself this question. It’s not clear what it means if Jesus requests that you do something, yet you refuse to do so. It indicates that you are knowingly disobeying the rules.

No way, not at all!

Nonetheless, declining baptism communicates a profound message about the condition of your relationship with Christ.

Please remember that if you find yourself in the same situation as the thief on the cross, God understands and will work with you. However, if you are competent to be baptized but refuse or choose not to do so, such action constitutes wilful sin, and you are therefore disqualified from salvation.

What Does the Bible Say About Baptism?

• Is baptism a requirement for salvation? Are baptisms in bodies of water such as rivers or oceans permissible? What is more important: that baptism be performed in the name of Jesus or in the name of the Father, Son,and Holy Spirit? Will newborns who die before being baptized enter the kingdom of God? If one want to be baptized by full immersion, is this necessary? Is it possible for anybody to baptize someone, or does it have to be done by a pastor? What does the Bible have to say regarding baptism of infants
• Is it possible for someone to be baptized more than once?

Introduction

It is a rite that is done by the vast majority of Christian churches. Baptisms are often performed by a minister or priest who sprinkles or pours water over the head of the individual being baptized. In certain churches, the individual is completely submerged in water for a limited period of time.

The Bible

Before the time of Jesus, there were Jewish kinds of baptism used for ritual cleansing that were practiced (Leviticus 8:5-6, Leviticus 16:23-24, Exodus 30:17-21). In preparation for Christ’s second coming, John the Baptist practiced baptism of repentance in the Jordan River (Matthew 3:11-12). At the start of His career, Jesus was baptized by the apostle John (Matthew 3:13-17). But it was Jesus Himself who instituted and ordered the process of Christian baptism, saying: “Go then and make disciples of all countries, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” (New Living Translation, Matthew 28:19) Afterwards, Jesus instructed them to “go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone, everywhere.” Anyone who believes in Jesus and is baptized will go to the kingdom of God.

Anyone, on the other hand, who refuses to believe will be condemned.

Questions

It is important to note that neither Jesus nor His followers established any guidelines for how baptism should be carried out, nor did they give much insight into its spiritual importance. The outcome has been the development of a wide range of ideas and practices within Christianity over the course of history.

What Is the Spiritual Meaning of Baptism?

It is important to note that neither Jesus nor His followers established any guidelines for how baptism should be performed, nor did they give any insight into its spiritual importance. The outcome has been the development of a wide range of ideas and practices within Christianity throughout the course of time.

Should a Person Be Baptized in the Name of Jesus or in the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit?

The Bible makes reference of both approaches. Churches baptize in the names of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, according to certain traditions (Matthew 28:19). Others baptize in the name of Jesus, but for other reasons (Acts 2:38,8:16,10:48, 19:5).

Who Should Be Baptized?

Numerous Christian denominations embrace infant baptism, citing the passages of Scripture in Acts 16:15 and Acts 16:33 in which complete families, including newborns, were baptized. Some churches will only baptize children whose parents are believers, while others will baptize all infants without distinction. Those who actively repent of their sins and experience spiritual rebirth are eligible for baptism in the Baptist Church and certain other churches.

Infants are not admitted to baptism in the Baptist Church or some other churches. For their part, they point out that the vast majority of baptisms recorded in the New Testament were of adults who had repented and joined the ranks of the faithful after a period of repentance.

What Is the Proper Method of Baptism?

The Baptist Church, as well as certain other denominations, believe that full-body immersion is required for genuine baptism. They point out that the ancient Greek word for baptize, baptizo, literally translated as “to immerse or submerge.” Furthermore, it appears that the majority of early church baptisms were performed via immersion. Immersion, on the other hand, is not used in the majority of churches; instead, water is sprinkled or poured over the head. In addition, they point out that the word baptizocould simply refer to a simple washing, as it does in Luke 11:38.

The extension of the Christian Church from the Mediterranean region into colder areas may be a contributing factor to the demise of the immersion method of baptism.

What About Persons Who Die Before They Are Baptized?

A recurring question among Christians who cling to the sacramental view of baptism is whether babies and children who die before being baptized will be awarded salvation and everlasting life in the presence of their parents. Because the Bible makes no mention of this subject, a variety of beliefs have evolved. The majority of Christians believe that God provides for the redemption of people who die without being baptized, even if they did not do so of their own volition. All who have heard and comprehended the Gospel but refuse to believe and be baptized are ineligible for salvation are those who wilfully refuse to believe and be baptized (Mark 16:15-16).

The most recent edition of the Catholic Catechism, on the other hand, makes no reference of Limbo (see below).

Church Doctrine

A selection of official church doctrines on baptism from the three biggest Christian denominations in the United States is shown here.

Roman Catholic

• Every individual who has not yet been baptized, and only such an individual is eligible to be baptized
• Adult Baptism has been a regular practice from the beginning of the Church, particularly in areas where the proclamation of the Gospel is still in its infancy. A significant role is consequently played by the catechumenate (the process of preparation for Baptism). This introduction to Christian faith and practice should prepare the catechumen to receive the gift of God in the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and the Holy Eucharist. Children, having been born with a fallen human nature and tainted by original sin, require the new birth of Baptism in order to be freed from the power of darkness and brought into the realm of freedom of God’s children, to which all men are called. It is most evident in the Baptism of infants, which demonstrates the absolute gratuitousness of God’s saving love. If the Church and the parents do not confer Baptism on a child as soon as possible after birth, they will be denying that child the priceless grace of becoming a child of God. For all those who have been baptized, whether children or adults, faith must develop after Baptism. In order to commemorate this, the Church has an annual Easter Vigil service in which the pledges made at baptism are renewed. Preparation for Baptism just takes you to the brink of new life, nothing more. As the source of the new life in Christ, baptism is the springboard from which the entire Christian life is born
• The Lord himself affirms that Baptism is required for salvation. He also directs his followers to preach the Gospel to all countries and to baptize those who believe in it. It is necessary for salvation for those who have heard the Gospel preached and who have had the opportunity to receive this sacrament
• However, in the case of children who have died without receiving Baptism, the Church can only entrust them to the mercy of God, as she does during their funeral rites. Certainly, because of God’s great mercy, which desires that all men be saved, and because of Jesus’ tenderness toward children, which caused him to say: “Let the children come to me, do not hinder them” (Mk 10:14
• Cf. 1 Tim 2:4), we can have hope that there is a way of salvation for children who have died without Baptism. The Church’s call to protect tiny children from coming to Christ via the gift of holy Baptism is all the more imperative in light of this. Baptism not only cleanses the neophyte of sins, but also transforms him or her into a “new creature,” an adopted son or daughter of God, who hasbecome a “partaker of the divine nature,” a member of Christ’s body and co-heir with him or her, and a temple of the Holy Spirit
• Baptism not only cleanses the neophyte from sins, but also transforms him or her into

Paragraphs 1246, 1247, 1250, 1254, 1257, 1261, 1263, and 1265 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, (c) 1994, United States Catholic Conference, Inc.

Southern Baptist

Baptism in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is the immersion of a believer in water in accordance with the teachings of the Bible. It is an act of obedience that symbolizes the believer’s faith in a crucified, buried, and risen Saviour, the believer’s death to sin, the burial of the old life, and the resurrection to walk in newness of life in Christ Jesus, as well as the believer’s death to sin, the burial of the old life, and the resurrection to walk in newness of life. It serves as a testament to his belief in the eventual resurrection of the dead (Revelation 21:4).

Because it is a church ordinance, it is a requirement for the privileges of church membership as well as participation in the Lord’s Supper. Copyright (c) 1999-2001, Executive Committee of the Southern Baptist Convention, Position Statements

United Methodist

• Baptism in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is the immersion of a believer in water in accordance with the Scriptures. When you die to sin, you are buried with your old life, and you are raised to walk in newness of life in Christ Jesus. It is an act of obedience that symbolizes your faith in a crucified, buried, and risen Savior, your death to sin, your burial with your old life, and your resurrection in Christ Jesus. In this way, he expresses his belief in the ultimate resurrection of the dead. The Lord’s Supper is a precondition to the advantages of church membership and participation in the Lord’s Supper, as it is an ordinance of the church. Taken from Position Statements, Copyright (c) 1999-2001, Executive Committee of the Southern Baptist Convention

Based on the book “By Water and the Spirit: A United Methodist Understanding of Baptism”

What does the Bible say about how to get baptized / how to baptize?

Answer Matthew 28 contains the last documented words of Jesus on earth, which are as follows: “I have been given all power in heaven and on earth.” As a result, go and make disciples of all countries, baptizing them in the name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and instructing them to follow everything I have instructed you to do in the first place. And without a doubt, I will be with you always, even to the end of the age” (verses 18–20). Among the commands contained in the Great Commission is the command to baptize new believers.

• There is no “how-to” handbook for baptism, which may explain why there are so many various perspectives on the practice.
• Some submerge three times, while others immerse only once; some immerse backwards, while others immerse forward, that is, face first; some immerse backwards, while others immerse only once.
• Infant baptism is regarded as an expression of the New Covenant and the faith of the parents in many churches, just like circumcision was regarded as an expression of the Old Covenant.
• Some believe that baptism is effective because it is a visible representation of an inside truth, whereas others disagree.
• Some believe that baptism is an essential act of obedience, without which a person cannot be saved, while others go so far as to believe that baptism must only be performed in the name of Jesus in order to be successful in saving a person.
• Indeed, many ideas regarding baptism are founded on theological presuppositions and tradition, just as many beliefs about other topics are founded on the same foundations.
• In terms of the mode of baptism, it is as follows: Baptizo is a Greek word that literally translates as “immerse.” In the first century, the word was not a theological term, but rather an ordinary phrase that was employed in everyday dialogue.

In the English versions of the Bible, the word “baptize” is transliterated rather than translated because, by the time the Bible was being translated into English, various other modes of baptism were popular, and the translators did not want to ruffle too many feathers by translating the word “immerse.” This has remained a tradition until this present day.

1. A baptismal ceremony is neither permitted or required by any text in the New Testament that speaks of baptism that does not include or necessitate immersion in water.
2. Because of the nature of the sprinkling or pouring, John’s baptism may have taken place anywhere there was a well or even the tiniest stream—”plenty of water” would not have been required in this case.
3. In the meantime, as they were traveling down the road, “they came across some water, and the eunuch exclaimed, ‘See, here is water!'” Philip conveys the gospel to him.
4. He baptized him” (Acts 8:36, 38).
5. Without the need to halt at a water source, and especially without the need to “get down into the water,” there would have been no reason to go on.
6. Because triple immersion is never stated in the Bible, the most widespread interpretation is that it is a single immersion method.
7. Nowhere in the mandate to be baptized does it suggest that anybody else should be baptized as well, and if triple immersion were the only suitable technique, we would expect that to have been stated explicitly.
8. At the end of the day, triple immersion appears to be an acceptable, if not mandatory, method of baptizing children.
9. Those who believed were baptized on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2), when Peter preached to the congregation.
10. Aside from that, the verse shows that faith had a role: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household” (Matthew 16:33).

To be sure, the jailer’s faith in Christ did not guarantee salvation for his entire household, including his infant children; rather, salvation through faith in Christ was guaranteed to the jailer and anyone else in his household—or anyone else anywhere in the world, for that matter—who would believe in Christ.

• It is presumed that the people in the home were of legal age to hear, comprehend, and respond to the Word in this instance.
• Did that include children under the age of one?
• Considering that the last verse states that his entire household had come to believe, it is possible that either 1) his household did not contain children under the age of two, or 2) children under the age of two could not react to the Word and were thus not included in the count.
• According to Acts 16:31–34, it appears that the promise of salvation was for the entire home, that the entire household heard the Word and believed, and that the entire household was baptized by the Holy Spirit.
• When it comes to baptism in the New Testament, evangelicals who practice baby baptism (pedobaptists) see it as analogous to circumcision in the Old Testament.
• They recognize that their children will have to come to faith in Christ on their own later in life, which is why evangelical pedobaptists desire the same thing for their young children as well.
• They also point out that the New Testament was written for first-generation Christians, so it follows that everyone who was baptized during the time period of the New Testament was a new believer.

An analogy-based theological reasoning, pedobaptism is a theological conclusion.

The Roman Catholic belief that infant baptism cleanses a child of original sin and restores him or her to a “neutral” condition of grace is simply not supported by Scripture; rather, it is dependent on church doctrine that Roman Catholics believe has the same authority as Scripture itself.

It is conceivable to see baptism in this context as a simple means for them to publicly announce their faith, as if Peter were instructing them, “Repent and confess Christ openly.” But this interpretation is problematic.

It was also the stage at which a believer was regarded seriously and at which persecution became a legitimate threat.

Aside from that, the majority of groups that teach baptismal regeneration also believe that baptism is only the first step in a life of obedience that is required for salvation.

According to them, baptism is only one of many works that must be performed in order to be saved.

These groups are often adherents of a sort of modalism.

This suggests that the particular formula utilized is not as significant as the message conveyed by the formula.

When a person was baptized in the name of Christ in the New Testament, he or she was affirming the deity of Christ.

It would appear that the fact that Jesus provided the Trinitarian formula in Matthew 28 disqualifies the “Jesus only” stance as the sole valid formula in this case.

Those who insist that baptism, or a certain style of baptism, is required for salvation are distorting the gospel message.

The core elements of the gospel, communion with one another, and even joint ministry are possible for evangelicals who disagree on the manner of baptism or the right candidates for baptism while preserving their own distinctive customs within their respective churches.

16 Bible Verses about Baptism

• Answer Matthew 28 contains the last documented words of Jesus on earth, which are as follows: “I have been given all power in heaven and on earth. ” Consequently, go into all the world and make disciples of all people, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and instructing them to obey everything I have commanded you to do. As for me, I will be with you always, even to the end of the age,” says the Bible (verses 18–20). The command to baptize disciples is included in the Great Commission. The importance of baptism cannot be overstated, but the New Testament provides very little specific guidance on the subject. Baptism does not come with a “how-to” manual, which may explain why there are so many differing perspectives on the subject. Some churches use a sprinkler or pour water over the head, while others use a full immersion method that submerges the entire body in water. There are those who immerse three times, while others who immerse only once
• There are those who immerse backward and others who immerse forward, that is, face first
• And then there are those who immerse only once
• As for who should be baptized and who should not, some churches practice believer’s baptism (credobaptism —from the wordcreed, which has to do with a statement of belief), while others baptize infants (pedobaptismor paedobaptism —from the Greek wordpaidia, which means “children”) who are incapable of comprehending what is happening to them. As was the case with circumcision under the Old Covenant, many churches view baptism as a symbol of both the New Covenant and the faith of the parents. It is believed that this baptism will wash away original sin and will allow the child to start from a “neutral” place of innocence and grace in the eyes of the Roman Catholic Church. Some believe that baptism has efficacy because it is an outward sign of an internal reality, whereas others disagree. Those who believe in the efficacy of the ritual as a means of cleansing themselves of sin. Some believe that baptism is a necessary act of obedience, without which a person cannot be saved, while others go so far as to believe that baptism must only be performed in the name of Jesus in order to be effective in saving a person’s soul. In terms of baptism, it is preferable to simply follow the teachings of the Bible
• However, the majority of those who hold any of the positions listed above believe that they are doing so in accordance with Scripture. A great deal of what we believe about baptism is based on theological presumptions and tradition, just as much as our beliefs about other issues are. This article will make an attempt to clear up some of the ambiguous terminology. In terms of the mode of baptism, the following are possible options: Baptizo is a Greek word that literally translates as “immerse” in English. In the first century, the word was not a theological term, but rather a common word that was used in everyday speech. It was common practice to refer to the dyeing of cloth as being “immersed” in the dye when talking about it. In the English versions of the Bible, the word “baptize” is transliterated rather than translated because, by the time the Bible was being translated into English, various other modes of baptism were popular and the translators did not want to ruffle too many feathers by translating the word as “immerse.” To this day, that tradition is still followed. Baptism by immersion in water is the most natural interpretation of the Bible’s command to do so. A baptismal ceremony is not permitted or required by any passage in the New Testament that does not allow for or require immersion in water. In John 3:23, for instance, we read: As a result, John began baptizing at Aenon near Salim, where there was plenty of water and a large number of people who were eager to be baptized. Because of the nature of the sprinkling or pouring, John’s baptism could have taken place anywhere with a well or even the smallest stream—”ample water” would not have been required. Acts 8 contains another such instance, the baptism of the Ethiopian eunuch. As they continue on their journey, Philip explains the gospel to him. “As they passed some water on the way, the eunuch exclaimed, ‘Look, here is water!'” Was there anything in the way of my baptism?’ I was curious. Philip and his servant, Eunuch, got down into the river with him after he had ordered the chariot to halt. He baptized him there” (Acts 8:36, 38). In the event that sprinkling or pouring were all that was required, Philip might have done it while traveling in the chariot and utilizing drinking water. Without the need to pause at a water source, and especially without the need to “get down into the water,” there would have been no reason to continue. The Bible does not specify whether immersion should be carried out in a forward, backward, or straight down direction after the water is submerged. Because triple immersion is never addressed in Scripture, the most popular belief is that it is a single immersion. Three times immersion is required because baptism is administered in the names of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—emphasizing the three Persons of the Triune God. There is nothing in the command to be baptized that would indicate anything other than single immersion, and if triple immersion were the sole suitable way, we would expect that to have been explicitly expressed in the instruction to follow. The singular name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is used in Matthew 28:19 (“baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit”) to stress the oneness of the Trinity. Ultimately, it appears that baptism by triple immersion is an acceptable, if not mandatory, method of initiation into the Christian faith. When it comes to the suitable candidates for baptism, there is no indication in the New Testament that newborns were baptized as a symbol of the covenant or as a demonstration of their parents’ faith. People were baptized on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2), when Peter preached to the people who had heard him. While it is correct to note that the entire household of the Philippian jailer was baptized (Acts 16:33), it is unclear if this included any newborns in his home. The verse also shows that faith was the driving force: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household” (Matthew 16:33). (Acts 16:31). Certainly, the promise to the jailer did not imply that his entire household, including infants, would be saved as a result of the jailer’s faith
• Rather, the promise of salvation through faith in Christ was intended for the jailer and anyone else in his household—or anyone else in the entire world, for that matter—who would believe. He and all of the other people in his house were then addressed by them with the word of the Lord, which is stated in the next verse (Acts 16:32). This passage makes the assumption that all present in the home were of legal drinking age and so capable of hearing, understanding, and responding to the Word. “He and his entire household were baptized shortly after that” (Acts 16:33). Were infants included in this category? “He was overjoyed because himself had finally come to believe in God—he and his entire family included (Acts 16:34). Considering that the last verse states that his entire household had come to believe, it is possible that either 1) his household did not contain children under the age of two, or 2) children under the age of two could not respond to the Word and were thus excluded from the count. A father who claims, “My whole family drives pickup trucks,” it goes without saying that he does not intend to include his 2-year-old son in this statement. Acts 16:31–34 indicates that the promise of salvation extended to the entire home, and that the entire household heard the Word and believed, as well as the entire household being baptized by the Spirit of God. This chapter makes no mention of, much less mandates, the baptization of children under the age of one year. When it comes to baptism in the New Testament, evangelicals who practice baby baptism (pedobaptists) link it with circumcision in the Old Testament. Because his parents wanted him to be a part of the community and because they were seeking God’s will, every male kid under the Old Covenant was circumcised. They recognize that their children will have to come to faith in Christ on their own later in life, which is why evangelical pedobaptists desire the same thing for their infants as well. In churches that practice believer’s baptism, the baptism ritual is quite similar to how a ” infant dedication ” ceremony is conducted (credobaptism). Additionally, Pedobaptists point out that, because the New Testament was written for first-generation Christians, it is reasonable to assume that everyone who was baptized in the New Testament was a new believer. While this may be true, it is inconceivable that none of the people who came to faith in the early church had any children, yet there is no example of any children being baptized because their parents believed, there is no command for believing parents to have their children baptized, and there is no passage that explicitly links baptism and circumcision. Analogy is used to draw theological conclusions about pedobaptism. According to evangelicals, baptism does not bring about salvation and is not essential for salvation, since the Bible does not teach or hold as a requirement for such salvation. The Roman Catholic belief that infant baptism cleanses a child of original sin and restores him or her to a “neutral” condition of grace is simply not supported by Scripture
• Rather, it is based on church doctrine that Roman Catholics believe has the same authority as Scripture. The following scriptures, according to those who think baptism is required for salvation: Acts 2:38, which says, “Baptism is required for salvation. Then Peter said, ‘Repent and be baptized, each and every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ,’ for the forgiveness of your sins.’ As a result, you will be blessed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.’ Despite the fact that Peter explicitly informs the multitude that they must be baptized, this is the only instance in which baptism appears to be mandated during a presentation of the gospel message. This might be read as a simple method for them to publicly announce their faith, as if Peter were urging them, “Repent and confess Christ openly,” which is exactly what he was encouraging them to do. Baptism was the public declaration of Christ’s identity in the early Church. It was also the stage at which a believer was treated seriously and at which persecution became a genuine prospect for them. In either the church or the community, a person who professed faith but refused to be baptized would not have been regarded seriously. Most organizations who believe in baptismal regeneration also hold to the belief that baptism is merely the beginning step in a life of obedience that is required for salvation. Consequently, obedience on the part of the believer, rather than trust in Christ, is what finally ensures salvation. It is only one of many works that they believe are required for salvation in their eyes. Some people believe that baptism should only be performed in the name of Jesus, while others disagree. Modalism is often adhered to by members of these groups. However, in the book of Acts, individuals are occasionally baptized in the name of Jesus, even though Jesus ordered baptism in the names of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This most likely shows that the particular formula utilized is not as significant as the meaning conveyed by the formula itself. It is the divinity of Christ that is the most frequently criticized in Trinitarian teaching (both historically and today). One’s baptism in the name of Christ, according to the New Testament, signifies an affirmation of Christ’s deity. Modernism and “Jesus Onlyteaching” are later phenomena that were not a concern in the time of Jesus. It would appear that the fact that Jesus provided the Trinitarian formula in Matthew 28 disqualifies the “Jesus only” stance as the sole valid formula in this situation. In the ultimate analysis, we feel that the immersion of Christians who have placed their confidence in Christ and who are being baptized as a public statement of their identity with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection is the most scriptural manner to baptize. Those who insist that baptism, or a certain style of baptism, is required for salvation are distorting the message of salvation. The core elements of the gospel, communion with one another, and even joint ministry are possible for evangelicals who disagree on the manner of baptism or the suitable candidates for baptism while keeping their own different customs within their respective churches.

Bible verse of the day

A flood will never again kill all life on the planet, and there will never again be a flood to destroy the earth, according to the covenant I make with you.

Why Did Jesus Need to Be Baptized?

What would be included in a catalog of behaviors that are vital to the Christian faith, if such a catalog were to be compiled? It would be reasonable to expect baptism to be included among the list of requirements, if at all. When Jesus commands his followers to become disciples (Matt. 28:18–20), baptism is one of the mechanisms by which he accomplishes this task. It was also essential to the proclamation of the gospel during the time of the church’s founding, on the Feast of Pentecost (Acts 2:38).

• It should come as no surprise that this is the case.
• Baptism was not only something Jesus instructed his disciples to undergo, but it was also something he himself experienced at some point.
• Consider that the baptism Jesus underwent was John’s baptism, which is defined as (1) accompanying “repentance” (Matt.
• 3:6), and (3) as a method of “fleeing from the approaching vengeance” (Matt.
• (Matt.
• Not much thought is required to realize that what is said about Jesus in the New Testament does not appear to be consistent with the rest of what the Bible says about him: that he was God’s virgin-born Son (Matt.
• 5:21; Heb.
• 5:8–9; John 17:4), fully pleasing to the Father (Matt.
• 3:15).

Why Was Jesus Baptized?

However, both Mark and Luke report this incident without posing any questions about it (Mark 1:9–11; Luke 3:21–22). Instead of recounting the details of Jesus’ baptism, John’s Gospel highlights the same result that has been emphasized in all of the other Gospels: that the Spirit of God descended on Jesus, anointing him as the Son of God (John 1:32–34). Among the Gospel writers, only Matthew brings up the subject of baptism by presenting an element of the account that the other writers do not include: John himself was hesitant to baptize Jesus.

The response of Jesus to John’s reluctance is informative, both in terms of addressing our question and in terms of exposing an essential feature of Matthew’s theological framework.

3:15).

Something significant is taking place here.

As a result, please allow me to provide this paraphrase: Jesus is carrying out his responsibilities as the obedient Son of God by exercising the needed righteousness of surrendering to God’s will to repent and turn from his sins (i.e., to live in the world wholeheartedly devoted to God).

How Does a Sinless Man Repent?

However, neither Mark nor Luke include the question in their accounts (Mark 1:19–11; Luke 3:21–22). When it comes to Jesus’ baptism, we don’t get the specifics from John’s Gospel. Instead, he focuses on the overall impact, which is the same as the other Gospels: that the Spirit of God descended on Jesus and anointed him as the Son of God (John 1:32–34). However, only Matthew raises the question by presenting a piece of history that the other Gospel writers do not include: John himself had reservations about baptisming Jesus (Matthew 3:11).

• (See Matthew 3:14 for further information).
• The response of Jesus to John’s reluctance is informative, both in terms of addressing our question and in terms of illuminating an essential component of Matthew’s theological perspective.
• 3:15).
• This place has a significant event taking place.
• As a result, please allow me to paraphrase as follows: Jesus is carrying out his responsibilities as the obedient Son of God by exercising the needed righteousness of surrendering to God’s will to repent and turn away from his sin (i.e., to live in the world wholeheartedly devoted to God).

Jesus as the Last Adam

So, what was the reason for Jesus’ baptism? We believe this is because Jesus’ aim in becoming the Savior of the world is centered on his own unwavering obedience to the Father. Philippians 2:8 and Romans 5:18 both say that he was obedient up to the point of death on the cross, which resulted in our redemption. In the words of Brandon Crowe, “Jesus is depicted in the Gospel as the final Adam, whose obedience is required in order for God’s people to receive the joys of salvation.” Jesus’ baptism marks the beginning of his mission as the obedient Son, as well as the beginning of his role as a paradigm of what it is to be faithful to God.

It is through his baptism that we receive the Holy Spirit; it is by his baptism that we are baptized into him.

Our Lord Jesus was baptized as a symbol of his devotion (wholehearted obedience), and in doing so, we are following in his footsteps.

Our baptism does not take place merely because he did.

Though, like John the Baptist, we may have been bewildered as to why Jesus was baptized at first, we can now understand that Jesus’ baptism was an essential aspect of his redemptive mission in the world, and that it should always be remembered as such.

Why Did Jesus Need to Be Baptized?

There are a plethora of hypotheses as to why Jesus agreed to be baptized. If He was blameless, as the New Testament asserts, then His baptism had to have had a hidden agenda behind it, right? Some believe that John and Jesus plotted or conspired together in order to gain attention for Jesus’ ministry; others believe that Jesus came as a representative of the sinful human race; still others believe that Jesus submitted to baptism as a foreshadowing of his death and resurrection; and still others believe that Jesus’ baptism made the act of baptism work for everyone else.

• For example, despite the fact that John and Jesus were cousins, we have no proof that either of them spoke before the time of the baptism.
• But, most importantly, John’s baptism was not primarily a baptism of repentance as some may think (the turning away from sin).
• Those who were baptized had previously confessed their sins and desired to be united with the future Messiah and His kingdom.
• His job was to prepare the way for Jesus’ arrival, not to remove sin from the world.
• Jesus requested John to baptize Him merely as an act of obedience to God’s intentions, rather than as a religious ceremony.
• That promise was fulfilled by Jesus.

The Baptism of Jesus

According to BibleStudyTools.com, the Baptism of Jesus is referenced in the Gospel Bible books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, among other places. In this account, we observe that Jesus comes up to John and wants to be baptized with his disciples. After preaching the Gospel for three years and baptizing individuals who repent and seek to restore their connection with God while looking forward to the coming Messiah, John was ready to retire. John is taken aback by the fact that Jesus, the spotless Son of God, is seeking to be baptized, since he believes that he should be the one asking Jesus to baptize him!

When Jesus is baptized, it is a symbolic expression of His submission to His Father as well as the beginning of His earthly ministry.

In the moment that Jesus rises out of the water, John sees the Spirit of God descend upon him like a dove, and they hear God’s voice from heaven exclaim, “This is my Son; the beloved; whom I have approved.” You may learn more about the Baptism of Jesus by reading the whole scriptural passage.

Why Did Jesus Have to be Baptized?

According to Jesus’ response: “Truthfully, really, I say to you, unless one is born again of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” ESV translation of John 3:5 “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit,” Peter instructed them. 2:38 (Acts 2:38) In accordance with this, baptism now saves you, not as a removal of filth from the body, but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, not as a removal of dirt from the body.

6:4 (Romans 6:4) And Jesus appeared to them and said, “Come, follow me.” “Everything in heaven and on earth has been handed to me as a result of this revelation.

In fact, from now until the end of the ages, I will be with you at all times.” Matthew 28:18-20 (NASB) According to Alfred Edersheim’s The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah (Book II, Chapter XI2) and the lecture notes of Dr.

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