Baptisms of the New Testament
Today, our focus is on understanding the significance and
meaning of baptism as presented in the New Testament. We will
begin by reflecting on Paul’s teaching in Ephesians 4:4-6, which
emphasizes the importance of unity in Christ—particularly the
concept of “one baptism” as central for all who seek to be true
followers of Jesus.
I. The Significance of the One Baptism
Paul clearly declares that there is only one baptism applicable
to the Christian dispensation. This teaching aligns with
Christ’s Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:19-20 and Mark
16:16, where Jesus commands His followers to go and make
disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the
Son, and of the Holy Spirit. This one baptism is the divine
instruction that Christians worldwide are to practice,
symbolizing entry into Christ and entrance into His church.
II. The Meaning and Translation of Baptizo
The Greek word baptizo means to dip, plunge, or fully immerse.
It is used in everyday language—such as describing ships sinking
or objects being submerged underwater. This word cannot
logically mean sprinkling or pouring, as those involve only
partial or external contact. True biblical baptism involves full
immersion, symbolizing the death, burial, and resurrection of
Christ as Romans 6:3-4 and Galatians 3:27 explain.
III. The Baptism of John: Preparation, Not Salvation
In the early days of Christianity, John the Baptist’s baptism
played a foundational role. Mark 1:2-5 describes John’s message,
which was a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins,
preparing hearts for the coming of the Messiah. Importantly,
John’s baptism was not in the name of Jesus, because Jesus had
not yet died and risen. It was a temporary, preparatory step
fulfilled when Jesus’ sacrifice was completed, as seen in Acts
19:1-5, where believers are baptized in the name of Jesus.
IV. The Transition to the One True Baptism
After Jesus’ death and resurrection, the practice of John’s
baptism was phased out. Paul, instructing believers in Acts
19:2-5, stresses that they must be baptized in the name of Jesus
Christ. Water baptism is the only act that truly puts us into
Christ—a vital step for salvation. Romans 6:3-4 and Galatians
3:27 make clear that baptism is how believers are united with
Him in His death, burial, and resurrection.
V. The Baptism of the Holy Spirit: An Initial, Miraculous Event
The Holy Spirit’s baptism occurred during the apostolic period,
notably at Pentecost in Acts 2 and later in Acts 10. Evidence of
this baptism was speaking in tongues and other miraculous signs,
serving primarily to confirm divine authority and authenticate
the apostles’ message. This Spirit baptism was a unique,
temporary event, fulfilled by the end of the first century.
Today, believers are not commanded to seek or expect this
miraculous baptism.
VI. The Final and Future Baptism
Jesus’ baptism of suffering, described in Luke 12:50, was His
immersion in death—an act of divine consequence. The “baptism of
fire” refers to eternal judgment for those who reject obedience
(Matthew 3:11-12). The one baptism Christians are commanded to
practice today is water baptism in Jesus’ name, for the
forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38). This is the baptism that
directly connects believers to Christ and His sacrifice.
Conclusion
There is only one valid baptism today—water immersion in the
name of Jesus Christ—and it is essential for salvation. This act
is not optional; it is commanded by the Lord and necessary to
enter His church and receive forgiveness. Rejecting this baptism
results in eternal separation from God, including fire and
judgment.
The clear divine instruction is to obey the Lord’s command—to be
baptized and receive the gift of salvation. We are urged to
respond promptly and faithfully, trusting that this one act is
God’s ordained means of entering into Christ and His eternal
kingdom.
Invitation
I call on everyone listening today: Submit to the only valid
baptism—water immersion in the name of Jesus—so that you may
receive the forgiveness of sins and become a part of Christ’s
body. Obey the Lord now, and He will save you for eternity.
The
church of Christ
