What Does the Bible Say About Baptism
For Christians, baptism is a way of life. Some devoted followers believe you aren't a true Christian until you've been baptized with holy water. Which is why the first order of business following the birth of a child in a Christian family is to organize and schedule a baptismal ceremony. But what does the Bible really say about baptism? Is there any difference between the baptismal ceremonies found in the bible from the bible ceremonies we know today?
The King James Version of the Bible has a lot to say about baptism, how it is implied in that version to have regenerative powers to wash away sins, and open up the body for the Holy Spirit to inhibit.
Here are some sample verses:
"And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed." Acts 13:48
"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." 1 Corinthians 12:13
"And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord." Acts 22:16
"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
Modern Christians practice baptism as early as a few weeks after childbirth. Thing is, in the last Bible verse Peter said that baptism should only be done following repentance from the individual, something all newborns simply aren't capable of.
In the Bible, baptism is done in the name of Jesus Christ and the Holy Trinity. Here's what the Bible verses have to say:
"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 19:4-5
"And he [Peter] commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord." Acts 10:48
"Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost." Acts 8:15-16
Modern practices vary. Some Christian denominations follow Matthew's Gospel and baptize individuals in the name of the Holy Trinity. Others choose to follow the teachings of Luke as well as the Bible verses of Acts, and thus they baptize only in the name of Jesus Christ.
Baptism is important in upholding the Christian faith. To be honest, it really isn't a big deal if you follow the Gospel of Matthew or the Bible verses from Luke. What's important is our belief in the Bible itself and the spiritual significance of holding a baptismal ceremony to celebrate the coming of another Christian in this world in the Name of the Lord.
"What Does the Bible Say About Baptism", was submitted 01/5/2012 under category Religion.
