What does John 3:23 reveal about the practice of baptism in early Christianity? John 3:23 in Focus “Now John was also baptizing at Aenon near Salim, because there was plenty of water there, and people were coming and being baptized.” Immediate Observations • John was “also” baptizing—his ministry ran parallel to Jesus’ emerging ministry (cf. John 3:22). • The location, Aenon near Salim, was chosen “because there was plenty of water,” underscoring the physical requirements of the rite. • People were actively “coming and being baptized,” highlighting willing, personal participation. What the Verse Reveals about Early Baptism • Abundant water indicates immersion, not mere sprinkling. • Baptism occurred outdoors in natural settings, showing it was public and accessible. • The act followed preaching that called for repentance (John 1:23; Luke 3:3), so baptism signified a conscious turn toward God. • Continuous baptizing implies it was a normal, expected response to the gospel message even before the cross. • John’s ongoing ministry shows baptism’s continuity: from John’s preparatory baptism of repentance to Christian baptism “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). How Later Scripture Echoes These Elements • Immersion imagery: “Jesus was baptized, He went up immediately from the water” (Matthew 3:16). • Ready water in evangelism: the Ethiopian eunuch—“Look, here is water! What can prevent me from being baptized?” (Acts 8:36). • Public, immediate response: “Those who welcomed his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added” (Acts 2:41). • Union with Christ pictured through burial and resurrection in water: Romans 6:3-4. • Salvation testimony: “Baptism now saves you—not the removal of dirt from the body, but an appeal to God for a clear conscience” (1 Peter 3:21). Practical Takeaways • Seek settings and methods that allow full immersion, honoring the biblical pattern of “plenty of water.” • Keep baptism public; it testifies openly to faith and repentance. • Encourage prompt obedience—those who believed “were coming and being baptized” without delay. • Present baptism as more than symbolism; it is God-ordained, visibly portraying cleansing, union with Christ, and entry into the covenant community. |
    |