Definition and Significance:
Baptism is a Christian sacrament and ordinance that signifies the believer's faith in Jesus Christ, symbolizing purification, regeneration, and admission into the Christian community. It is an outward expression of an inward transformation, representing the believer's identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Biblical Foundation:
The practice of baptism is rooted in the New Testament and is commanded by Jesus Christ. In the Great Commission, Jesus instructs His disciples: "Therefore go 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). This directive establishes baptism as an essential rite for believers.

John the Baptist and the Baptism of Repentance:
John the Baptist, a forerunner to Christ, preached a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Mark 1:4 states, "John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins." John's baptism prepared the way for the coming of Jesus, emphasizing the need for repentance and spiritual cleansing.

Jesus' Baptism:
Jesus Himself was baptized by John, marking the beginning of His public ministry. This event is recorded in Matthew 3:16-17 : "As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water. Suddenly the heavens were opened, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and resting on Him. And a voice from heaven said, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.'" Jesus' baptism, though He was sinless, served as an example for believers and affirmed His identity as the Son of God.

The Apostolic Practice:
The apostles continued the practice of baptism as an integral part of the early church. On the day of Pentecost, Peter exhorted the crowd, "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" (Acts 2:38). Baptism was closely associated with conversion and the reception of the Holy Spirit.

Modes and Theology:
While the mode of baptism (immersion, pouring, or sprinkling) varies among Christian denominations, the theological significance remains consistent: it is a means of grace, a public declaration of faith, and a symbol of the believer's union with Christ. Romans 6:3-4 articulates this union: "Or aren’t you aware that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may walk in newness of life."

Infant Baptism vs. Believer's Baptism:
The practice of infant baptism is observed in many Christian traditions, signifying the inclusion of children in the covenant community. Proponents cite household baptisms in the New Testament (e.g., Acts 16:15, 33) as precedent. Conversely, believer's baptism, practiced by Baptists and other evangelical groups, emphasizes personal confession of faith prior to baptism, aligning with the pattern seen in the New Testament.

Conclusion:
Baptism remains a central and unifying sacrament within Christianity, symbolizing the believer's cleansing from sin, new birth in Christ, and commitment to follow Him. It is a profound expression of faith and obedience, rooted in the teachings and example of Jesus Christ and His apostles.

Of Baptism.
... Christ alone. And yet he who baptises into Christ cannot but at the same
time invoke the name of the Father and the Spirit. For ...
/.../calvin/the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 15 of baptism.htm

Baptises (3 Occurrences)
...Baptises (3 Occurrences). ... (DBY). John 4:1 When therefore the Lord knew that the
Pharisees had heard that Jesus makes and baptises more disciples than John (DBY). ...
/b/baptises.htm - 7k

Baptised (46 Occurrences)

/b/baptised.htm - 18k

Baptisest (1 Occurrence)

/b/baptisest.htm - 6k

Baptise (7 Occurrences)
... not; but he who sent me to baptise with water, he said to me, Upon whom thou shalt
see the Spirit descending and abiding on him, he it is who baptises with the ...
/b/baptise.htm - 8k

Makes (483 Occurrences)
... (WEY). John 4:1 When therefore the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard that
Jesus makes and baptises more disciples than John (DBY). ...
/m/makes.htm - 34k

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