Baptism is the rite that publicly identifies one as a follower of Christ—a Christian. It is included in Jesus’ final instruction to His disciples: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). When people responded to the gospel, baptism was the public response and was usually immediate (see Acts 2:38–41; 8:12; 10:47–48).*
Baptism in the New Testament symbolizes resurrection and washing. The symbol or rite does not accomplish new life or spiritual cleansing, but it is an outward illustration of the inward reality. When a person is placed under the water and then brought out again, it visibly represents dying to the old life and being resurrected with Christ. Also, it is a picture of washing, as this seems to have been the background of the Jewish baptism of Gentile converts. At the same time, baptism is a public confession of identification with Christ in death and resurrection (see Romans 6:3–4).*
Based on the definition of baptizó, the resurrection symbolism, and the fact that every use of the word in the New Testament either allows for or implies immersion as the mode of baptism, immersion, not sprinkling, is the most biblical mode of baptism. While sprinkling with water may be a symbol for washing, it is hardly a visible representation of resurrection. Since baptism represents a reality in the life of the one being baptized, only believers are proper candidates for baptism.*
Furthermore, baptism is an act of obedience, as it is commanded by Jesus in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19). It is one of the two Christian ordinances, the other being Communion. Baptism is meant for every Christian after salvation. There is no biblical support for the idea that infant baptism imparts salvation.
Baptism is frequently likened to the symbolic wedding band of the Christian faith as it represents a unique pledge to Christ. It not only includes a transition towards Him, but a departure from former convictions.
The practice of baptism is simple, involving the affirmation of belief in Jesus' sacrificial death and resurrection. The actual act can include expressions of gratitude, but doesn't require lengthy testimonies, offerings, or membership appeals. For instance, "Are you trusting in the substitutionary death and resurrection of Jesus Christ for eternal life and forgiveness of sins?" and "Is there anyone here who you would like to thank?"
Ultimately, baptism can be done by any believer, as Matthew 28:19 doesn't prescribe it exclusively to individuals with particular titles or roles. Ideally, disciples, baptize their fellow disciples.
Baptism in the New Testament symbolizes resurrection and washing. The symbol or rite does not accomplish new life or spiritual cleansing, but it is an outward illustration of the inward reality. When a person is placed under the water and then brought out again, it visibly represents dying to the old life and being resurrected with Christ. Also, it is a picture of washing, as this seems to have been the background of the Jewish baptism of Gentile converts. At the same time, baptism is a public confession of identification with Christ in death and resurrection (see Romans 6:3–4).*
Based on the definition of baptizó, the resurrection symbolism, and the fact that every use of the word in the New Testament either allows for or implies immersion as the mode of baptism, immersion, not sprinkling, is the most biblical mode of baptism. While sprinkling with water may be a symbol for washing, it is hardly a visible representation of resurrection. Since baptism represents a reality in the life of the one being baptized, only believers are proper candidates for baptism.*
Furthermore, baptism is an act of obedience, as it is commanded by Jesus in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19). It is one of the two Christian ordinances, the other being Communion. Baptism is meant for every Christian after salvation. There is no biblical support for the idea that infant baptism imparts salvation.
Baptism is frequently likened to the symbolic wedding band of the Christian faith as it represents a unique pledge to Christ. It not only includes a transition towards Him, but a departure from former convictions.
The practice of baptism is simple, involving the affirmation of belief in Jesus' sacrificial death and resurrection. The actual act can include expressions of gratitude, but doesn't require lengthy testimonies, offerings, or membership appeals. For instance, "Are you trusting in the substitutionary death and resurrection of Jesus Christ for eternal life and forgiveness of sins?" and "Is there anyone here who you would like to thank?"
Ultimately, baptism can be done by any believer, as Matthew 28:19 doesn't prescribe it exclusively to individuals with particular titles or roles. Ideally, disciples, baptize their fellow disciples.
Resources
- Watch What is Baptism? (4:22)
- Watch Is Baptism Necessary for Salvation? (5:12)
* Cited from What is the Purpose of Baptism?