Let's study the Bible
April 15, 2022
Baptism is a word that is often misunderstood. The word as used in the New Testament refers to immersion. The original word, instead of being translated as immersion, was transliterated from baptizo to baptism. Today sprinkling or pouring water over are often substituted for New Testament baptism. We have seen from studying Bible history that God wants His people to be obedient to His commands.
Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist is recorded in Matthew 3:13-17. Jesus said “it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness” by being baptized by John. Verse 16 says “when He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water.”
In Acts 8:26-39 is the account of the Ethiopian eunuch being baptized by Philip. Verse 37 says, ”I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” Verse 38 says both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him. Verse 39 says “when they come up out of the water.” These are examples of baptism occurring in the water. Immersion as the original language intended.
Jesus commands His disciples in Matthew 28 “go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.” In Mark 16 He says “Go and preach the gospel, he who believes and is baptized shall be saved.” Baptism was important to Jesus. These commands were among His last words.
In Acts 2 when Peter preached on the day of Pentecost and people said “What must we do?” he said, ”Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of your sins.” Those who gladly received His Word were baptized. They obeyed the words of Jesus Christ.
These few scriptures give a glimpse of the meaning and importance of baptism. It is important that we study the Bible and understand what God would have His people do to please Him.
Reader Comments(0)