The Biblical Meaning and Practice of Baptism
Scripture presents baptism as a sacred act of obedience for believers, symbolizing their identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4). This rich spiritual truth calls for careful examination of both its meaning and proper administration.
The Biblical Model of Baptism
- Exclusive to believers: Always followed personal faith in Christ (Acts 2:38, 8:12)
- By immersion: The Greek “baptizo” means to dip or immerse, reflecting Christ’s burial and resurrection
- Symbolic not salvific: An outward sign of inward grace received through faith alone (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Problems With Infant Baptism
- No biblical precedent: Scripture records only believer’s baptism
- Requires understanding: Infants cannot exercise saving faith or repentance
- Distorts the symbol: Sprinkling/pouring don’t represent burial/resurrection
- Confuses covenants: Baptism never called the New Covenant equivalent of circumcision
Key Theological Considerations
- Salvation precedes baptism (Acts 10:44-48)
- Baptism testifies to grace already received
- Proper subjects are repentant believers (Mark 16:16)
- Proper mode is immersion (Matthew 3:16; Acts 8:38-39)
Alternative Practice: Child Dedication
- Biblical model seen in Jesus’ presentation (Luke 2:22)
- Parental commitment to raise child in faith
- Anticipates child’s personal decision for Christ
The Beauty of Believer’s Baptism
When properly understood and practiced, baptism stands as a powerful testimony of God’s saving work – a public declaration of personal faith in Christ and spiritual union with Him. This ordinance remains one of the church’s most meaningful acts of worship and obedience.
