BAPTISM
INTERACTIVE BIBLE STUDY

Examine the evidence regarding baptism by water, including its symbolism, method and prerequisites.

"Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life." Matthew 6:4

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Christ provided an example of baptism

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“Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so now; for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then he consented. And when Jesus was baptized, he went up immediately from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and alighting on him; and lo, a voice from heaven, saying, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased." Matthew 3:13-16
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One of the momentous events in Christ's life was His baptism. It occurred at the start of His ministry here on earth, and launched the beginning of His public life of service for others. Followers of Christ are instructed in the Bible to walk as he walked (I John 2:6), making the study of baptism of deep interest.
Jesus was baptized, not to show repentance for His own sins, but as an example for us. Just as the Holy Spirit alighted on Him afterwards and the voice from heaven pledged approval, so the Holy Spirit will be given to us and we will have assurance of God's acceptance of us.




Baptism represents: Our spiritual rebirth

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"Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with [him] through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead." Colossians 2:12
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Going down into the water during baptism, symbolizes being buried, or our old selves dying. The old self is the selfish and sinful creature. The new creature has its sins covered by Christ and is being transformed more and more into a loving, Christlike person. This is all accomplished in us by God.
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"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration [spiritual rebirth, restoration], and renewal of the Holy Spirit" (Titus 3:5).
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Being under the water, symbolizes the washing away of sins in the life. Since Christ lived a perfect life, He is able to remove our sins from us and take them upon Himself.
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"Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life" (Matt 6:4).
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Raising up out of the water, symbolizes a new life, where Christ transforms the character into His likeness. This is the work of the Holy Spirit within us, molding and influencing us as we submit wholly to Him.

Being "born again" in a spiritual sense, indicates a fresh start. However, this fresh start, isn't just starting over again in the same position you were before in hopes that you'll do better this time. Rather, it is a new state of being, where Jesus covers your sins so that there is nothing interferring between you and Him. Then, He can work in you to complete your transformation of character. God desires to return each of us to the character humanity had at creation, when motives were pure, thoughts sincere and moral perceptions (conscience) good.
Baptism symbolizes your belief and acceptance of all these amazing things. It is the outward showing of your inward beliefs.
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Additional Notes

God created humans perfect. In fact, God created humans in His own image (Genesis 1:27, 9:6). When the human race chose to go against God’s instructions, we increasingly lost our likeness of Him. There is evidence that both our physical state and charater was in the likeness of God. He created humans good with noble character traits. This likeness to God is what He desires for us now (Romans 8:29, 2 Thes. 2:13-14). The goal of the Holy Spirit’s work is to transform us back into the image of God.

"Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him" (Col. 3:9-10).

"The glory which thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one" (John 17:22). This glory is the character of Christ, and all are invited to partake of it.




Baptism represents: A process of purification

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“Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water” (Heb. 10:22).
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In the earthly sanctuary system, the priest would sprinkle the blood and the ashes of a heifer on the tent and the persons inside to purify them. This represented the work of Christ to cleanse us and our surroundings from moral impurities.
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“… in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure [counterpart] whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Now Christ has gone to heaven” (I Peter 3:20-22).
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Baptism doesn’t save us because it washes away dirt on our skin. But rather, experiencing the reality of what baptism represents saves us; a good conscience resulting from Christ's work of eliminating sin in our lives. The word translated to “conscience” means moral perception.

Purification (the elimination of sin) in our lives is critical in two ways:
  • The penalty of sinning is removed from us so we do not have to die eternally.
  • That which separates us from God (sin) is removed from our lives so that the Holy Spirit can transform our characters.
Baptism isn't the end goal, but rather it signifies the start of a new life in which Christ purifies the conscience and motives.




Scripture teaches the necessity of baptism by water

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“Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that you do, unless God is with him." Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, unless one is born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God." Nicodemus said to him, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?" Jesus answered, "I tell you the truth, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God" (John 3:1-5).

"And he said unto them, Go into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believes and is baptized shall be saved, and he that disbelieves shall be condemned" (Mark 16:15-16).
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It is true that baptism by water is a symbol, representing the reality of what Christ does for us. But at the same time, obedience in performing the symbol as instructed, is part of truly living the reality.

Quite a number of texts in the Bible teach not only of the importance of baptism, but that it is a requirement. Many of the texts are used throughout this study, so they are not repeated here.
The scriptures are clear that baptism by water should be experienced by all Christians.




Prerequisites for baptism:
#1 - Study and understand the Word

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"And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway" (Acts 16:31-33).

"And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized" (Acts 18:8).
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In these texts, hearing the apostles preach and learning about the Lord occurred prior to baptism.
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"So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." Romans 10:17
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Studying the word of God is a catalyst for developing faith. Without faith, one cannot believe in the Lord and therefore wouldn't be ready for baptism.
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"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, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age." Matthew 28:19-20
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While this text isn't clear as to whether the teaching should occur before baptism, afterwards or both, we know that other texts indicate that studying God's word should occur both before and after. The Bible points us to Christ and then helps us to grow as new creatures in Christ.
Baptism occurs after hearing the word of the Lord. The Word of God should be studied and the foundational teachings of Christ understood.




Prerequisites for baptism:
#2 - Approve and believe the Word

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"Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls." Acts 2:38-41
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The word translated to "received" means "to take fully, approve or accept gladly. It isn't enough to understand what you study, but you should accept it as truth and approve of it before baptism.
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"See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest." Acts 8:36-37
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Believing to this level (ALL), is not something to be taken lightly or entered into in haste.
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"But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done." Acts 8:12-13
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This text teaches that one should believe in the name of Jesus (His name means His character and authority), and also believe in what the Bible teaches about His kingdom. The subject of His kingdom clearly encompasses many aspects, including things such as forgiveness, the character and behavior of its citizens, His second coming, etc.

A good idea of the topics taught to prospective members of the apostolic church can be gained by studying the speeches given by the apostles. The amount of instruction given, probably depended on the background of the individual. Of course, the entire scriptures were endorsed by the apostles, and are useful for teaching. However, the following list of topics are examples of topics specifically preached prior to baptism.
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"Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus" (Acts 8:35).
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Topics preached prior to baptism in the Bible (in the book of Acts):
  • The good news of Jesus Christ (4:12, 8:12, 8:35)
  • Prophecies that Christ fulfilled and those yet future(2:16-20; 3:18, 8:32-35)
  • Jesus is human & divine (2:30, 9:20)
  • Jesus' ministry on earth (2:22, 10:38-39)
  • Jesus' death & resurrection (2:23, 2:32-33, 3:15; 4:10, 4:33, 10:40)
  • Jesus' ministry in heaven (2:33-36, 4:11, 5:31)
  • Repentance & forgiveness (2:38, 3:19,26, 10:43; 13:38-39)
  • State of the dead (2:29,34)
  • Future judgment (3:19-21, 10:42, 17:31)
  • Second coming (3:20-21)
  • Resurrection (24:15; 17:18)
  • The Holy Spirit (2:33, 38)
A person does not need to understand all things before being baptized. The Christian life is all about growth. But at the same time, it is plain from scriptures, and logical, that one should obtain a good base of knowledge and believe it wholeheartedly, before getting baptized. Even though one might not understand everything in the Bible, they can be committed to accepting and following truth that will be revealed to them in the future.




Prerequisites for baptism:
#3 - Repent

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"Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." Acts 2:37-38
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The word translated to "pricked" in the above text, means to pierce thoroughly or agitate violently. When these people heard the preaching of the apostles, they evidently experienced some intense convictions. This is vital for true repentance.

The word translated to "repent" means to think differently or to feel compunction (anxiety of conscience caused by doing wrong). If a person knows something is wrong and they willfully continue in it, it indicates the person is not ready for baptism.
Accepting Christ includes a desire to leave sin behind and walk in a new life.




When should baptism occur?

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“And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” Acts 22:16

"And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway [immediately, soon]." Acts 16:33
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There should be no delay in getting baptized, once the prerequisites are met.
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"Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord." Acts 10:47-48
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Not being baptized by water, in the above text, did not keep the believers from receiving the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Baptism does not have to occur before Jesus will justify (forgive & cleanse) and sanctify (work in you to transform your character and serve Him effectively) you. But, as evidenced by Peter's command in the above text, it should occur as soon as possible.
Baptism should occur as soon as the prerequisites are met (study, understand, believe and approve).




How is baptism performed?

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"And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water..." (Matt. 3:16).
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Almost all Christian churches practice baptism. However, there are differences in the way it is administered, including total immersion, sprinkling and pouring. Total immersion was clearly the practice used in the New Testament for several reasons:

1. The meaning of the Greek term makes it clear. The Greek word translated to "baptized" means to make whelmed or wash. Many baptisteries exist in ancient churches indicating that for centuries the Christian church practiced baptism by immersion.
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"And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized" (John 3:23).
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2. Bible references to baptisms show plainly that immersion was the method used.
  • John the Baptist baptized "in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there” (Jn 3:23). There would be no reason to require a place where there was much water if sprinkling or pouring were used.
  • When the Ethiopian eunuch was baptized, it states that Philip and the eunuch “went down both into the water,” and came “up out of the water” (Acts 8:38, 39). This description wouldn't apply to sprinkling or pouring.
  • In describing Jesus' baptism, Matthew writes "he went up immediately from the water" (Matt. 3:13-16).
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"Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead" (Col. 2:12).
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3. The spiritual symbolism is clear only if baptism by immersion is understood. Paul writes that as Christ was buried and was raised, so we are to be symbolically “buried” with Him in the watery grave of baptism and "raised" to newness of spiritual life (Rom 6:3–5; Col 2:12). This illustration loses its meaning unless total immersion is meant.
Total immersion in water is the Biblical method of baptism. Other methods are not keeping in the apostle's doctrine or following Jesus' example.




Should baptism be linked with church membership?

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“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, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matt 28:18-20

“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” Mark 16:15-16
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Christ instructed the apostles to go baptize and teach every person in the world. A typical evangelistic series or Bible seminar includes an invitation for baptism at the conclusion. This is the Biblical way to preach the gospel.
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“Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” Acts 2:38
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The gift of speaking in tongues (one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit described in I Cor. 12:4-11) was abundantly given to new believers in New Testament times. This was to provide the ability to spread the gospel to people of other nations who spoke different languages. This enabled the gospel to be spread at an amazingly rapid pace. Not all believers were able to speak in tongues (I Cor. 12:27-31), but there were many who were given this particular gift.
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“Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers...Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” Acts 2:41,42,47
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Those who were baptized by the apostles were added to the group of believers. They were united in doctrine and regularly gathered together. Throughout the New Testament, believers are called the church. As part of baptism, it is important to become part of a group of believers who believe as the apostles did. Being with fellow believers can also help a person grow and remain stedfast.
Baptism is an inseparable part of evangelism. Believers are called to support the spread of the gospel to the entire world. This includes an invitation to baptism and to join a fellowship of believers that are organized and unified as were the apostles. Along with being converted and baptized, new believers receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit to enable them to spread the gospel. Thus, the good news is spread further and further.




How many baptisms are there?

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1 Cor 12:13 “For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.”

Ephesians 4:4-5 “There is one body, and one Spirit, even as you are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
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There is only one baptism.
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"...Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus" (Acts 19:1–5).

"Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)
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Upon the reception of new truths, some believers at Ephesus who had received “John’s baptism” were baptized again, in the name of Jesus. It is important to be baptized in the name of Jesus. If a person thinks they were improperly baptized, it may be appropriate to be rebaptized.
The one and only true baptism, is done in the name of Jesus (believing in His teachings and claims).




Am I ready for baptism?

This study has reviewed the basic prerequisites for baptism as outlined in the Bible. If you have never been baptized, consider the following questions:
Do I understand the foundational teachings of the Bible?
If not, then you are not yet equipped to make a decision FOR OR AGAINST baptism. The Bible teaches that faith comes as a result of hearing the word of God. Study the Bible to increase your faith and learn the reasons why choosing God's side is the best choice. BibleEvidence.com provides Bible Studies on many other topics, which can help you learn more about Christ's kingdom, His government and future plans. The topic on "Salvation" is a great place to begin.
Do I believe in the Bible and Christ's promises?
Just knowing the teachings of the Bible does not mean that a person believes them. True belief can be pursued in a variety of ways, including Bible study, prayer, personal experience, logical reasoning and the testimony of others.

If you are struggling with doubt, it can be very helpful to study Bible prophecies. Jesus said "And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe" (John 14:29). Prophecies in the Old Testament that accurately foretell the specific details of Christ's life on earth are a great place to start. Another recommended prophecy to begin with is in Daniel chapter two, which correctly outlined in advance, the "World Empires" that would rule for the next 2,500 years.
Am I committed to what baptism represents and welcome it into my life?
Starting a new life with Christ, means letting go of your old ways and seeking new better ways. It is natural to NOT want to change your ways. But, changing your desires, so that you DO want to change, is what Christ is all about. When you rise up out of the water, having given your life to Christ, He works to change you from the inside out. Your mind is the object of transformation...You will begin to love what you used to hate, and hate what you used to love. He will write His law on your heart (Heb. 8:10), which means that you will want to do what is right; it will become natural. This is true freedom!
You will never be the same after making this decision.




End of Study

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