“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 (NIV)
Other than the meaning of Communion (Eucharist), Baptism is likely the area with the most differences among Christian denominations. We widely differ on the manner of baptism, its theological meaning, and even its necessity for salvation. For example, the tradition I was raised in practiced believers' baptism with immersion. Since that time, my own theological understanding has changed, and I embrace a different view based on my knowledge of God’s grace. That is not to say I am right and that the tradition I came from is wrong, but that we all come to God with different traditions and understandings.
My objective is not to convince anyone to change their minds about baptism but to discuss it from a broader Christian perspective.
In the New Testament, the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist serves as our example (Matthew 3:13-17). Jesus himself, in The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), further emphasizes the importance of baptism in the mission of the Church, calling us to make followers of all nations and baptize them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
On the day of Pentecost, Peter, in Acts 2:38, calls on the people to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of their sins, highlighting the significance of baptism in the early Christian community. The difference between Jesus in Matthew and Peter in Acts, explains why some churches baptize in the name of the Trinitarian Godhead, while others do so in the name of Jesus. In Romans 6:3-4 Paul beautifully illustrates the symbolism of baptism, comparing it to being buried with Christ and raised to a new life, underscoring the transformative power of this sacrament. From this comes our understanding of “new birth” or “born again” (John 3:3-8), signifying a spiritual rebirth and our transformation through faith in Jesus Christ.
Some churches, including the Methodists, practice infant baptism. While there is no direct reference to infant baptism in the Bible, Peter's proclamation in Acts 2:38-39 calls for repentance and baptism, and the promise is extended to the children. Also, in Acts 16, there are two examples of baptized whole households.
Baptism also has roots in the Old Testament, which includes rituals of purification with water that may be seen as a foreshadowing of baptism. In Leviticus 14:8-9, God commands the ritual purification for someone with skin disease. In 2 Kings 5:14, the leper Naaman, following the instructions of Elisha, is healed by dipping in the Jordan River.
Though the methods, theological interpretations, and the perceived necessity of baptism vary among denominations, we share a common thread in recognizing baptism's significance and role in our faith journey. This act represents obedience to Christ's command, initiation into the Christian community, and a transformative experience. It is an outward sign of God's grace and a testament to the new life we receive in Christ. By recognizing our shared beliefs and respecting our diverse traditions, we can build a stronger sense of unity and appreciation for the beautiful variety within the Christian faith.
Heavenly Father, we come with hearts full of gratitude for the gift of baptism and the unity we find in You. Thank You for the diverse traditions and understandings that enrich our faith and draw us closer to Your love. Help us to recognize our shared beliefs and respect our differences, fostering a deeper sense of unity and appreciation for the beautiful variety within the Christian faith. Grant us the wisdom to embrace one another with open hearts and the grace to walk together in love and understanding. May Your Holy Spirit guide us as we seek to grow in our faith and strengthen our bond as brothers and sisters in Christ. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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