Through the years, there has been a lot of discussion and a lot of disagreement on the subject of baptism. The Bible teaching on it is clear, but men’s opinions have caused some confusion in the minds of many. That same confusion has led to disinterest on the part of many who think it is too hard to understand. That does the Bible say about baptism and what do we need to know about it?
- Baptism is immersion in water. “And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing. ” (Acts 8:38)
- Baptism is part of the Great Commission to reach the lost. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost…” (Mt. 28:19) “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.” (Mk. 16:15,16)
- Baptism is for the remission of sins. “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) “And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” (Acts 22:16)
- Baptism is necessary for salvation. “The like figure 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.” (1 Pet. 3:21)
- Baptism will add one to the church. “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 Cor. 12:13) This may not stop the controversy, but it is what the Bible teaches!
Gary Knuckles is minister of the Briensburg Church of Christ in Briensburg, KY and lives in Benton, KY.