What is the correct method for performing baptism? Definition and Background Baptism is a sacred ordinance instituted according to the Scriptures by the direct command of Jesus Christ. In the Berean Standard Bible, the primary text commonly cited is Matthew 28:19: “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.” Baptism has been practiced from the earliest days of the Church as a symbol of identification with Jesus in His death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3–4). Throughout history, believers have held various perspectives on the method of baptism. However, the core thread uniting them is obedience to Christ’s command and a public profession of faith. This entry explores biblical, historical, and contextual considerations to determine the correct method for performing baptism. Origins and Scriptural Command According to the Gospels, Jesus Himself was baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River (Mark 1:9–10), where the text specifies Jesus “came up out of the water.” This depiction suggests a setting large enough for immersion. John 3:23 similarly mentions that John was baptizing in Aenon near Salim “because the water was plentiful there,” implying immersion as the common practice at that time. In addition, Jesus instructed His disciples in Matthew 28:19 not only to make disciples but to baptize them “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” This is often referred to as the Trinitarian formula, which baptizing churches have generally followed for centuries. Meaning of the Greek Term “Baptizō” The Greek word “baptizō” (βαπτίζω) fundamentally means “to immerse” or “to submerge.” Lexicons and early Christian writings consistently affirm the sense of going fully under water. This usage fits passages such as Acts 8:38–39, where Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch “went down into the water” and “came up out of the water,” further illustrating immersion. Early historical documents, such as the Didache (a Christian writing from the late first or early second century), offer that in situations where immersion is not possible (e.g., lack of sufficient water), pouring may be employed. However, these same documents indicate that immersion remained the normative, preferred practice when circumstances allowed. Biblical Symbolism of Baptism Baptism vividly portrays the believer’s union with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. Romans 6:3–4 states, “Or aren’t you aware that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead…we too may walk in newness of life.” Immersion aligns closely with the imagery of being “buried” under the water and then raised again. This symbolic act does not earn salvation (Ephesians 2:8–9 makes clear that salvation is through grace by faith). Rather, it is an outward demonstration of an inward change in a person who has placed their trust in Jesus Christ as Savior. Historical and Archaeological Evidence Archaeological findings from the early centuries of the Church, such as the third-century baptistery in the Dura-Europos church in Syria, show a structure large enough for adults to enter, supporting full-body immersion as a common mode. Other ancient ruins and mosaics similarly depict baptism as a public rite often associated with expansive water sources. Early Christian leaders such as Tertullian (late second to early third century) wrote about the significance of water immersion, underscoring the continuity of this practice with the apostolic era. While some writings reference pouring or sprinkling—especially in contexts of illness or scarcity of water—these appear as exceptions rather than the standard. Practical Considerations 1. Environment: The baptizing church typically designates a body of water—a baptismal pool, a river, or a specifically built baptistery. The essential element is enough water to immerse the candidate completely, following the example from biblical narratives. 2. Candidate's Profession of Faith: According to Acts 2:38, baptism follows repentance and belief. The individual to be baptized publicly confesses belief in Christ as Savior and Lord. 3. Invocation of the Triune Name: In keeping with Matthew 28:19, the baptizer proclaims, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” This practice solidifies the believer’s association with the Triune God. 4. Symbolic Representation: Immersion best represents the spiritual reality that the believer has died to sin, been buried with Christ, and is raised to new life (Romans 6:4). Testimonies and Anecdotal Observations In modern contexts, there are uncountable testimonies of changed lives following the conversion experience, with baptism as a public declaration. Throughout Christian history, individuals have journeyed great distances to locate enough water for immersion, emphasizing its importance. Missionary accounts frequently recount gatherings at rivers or lakes where new believers are baptized, often in front of witnessing communities, testifying to genuine faith. Furthermore, historical revivals, including the First and Second Great Awakenings, showcased numerous baptisms done by immersion in rivers and streams, aligning with scriptural precedents and underscoring baptism’s role as a corporate celebration of new life in Christ. Addressing Alternative Methods Sprinkling or pouring has sometimes been practiced in instances of necessity (e.g., a bedridden convert who cannot be immersed). While the symbolic image is not as visually pronounced, many have argued that the heart of obedience lies in the public confession and in following Christ’s command. Nevertheless, the weight of biblical and historical evidence indicates that immersion more fully represents the pattern shown throughout Scripture. Conclusion The correct method for performing baptism, as indicated through scriptural references, historical accounts, linguistic studies of the term “baptizō,” and the practices of the early church, is by immersion. It symbolizes the believer’s total identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. When believers publicly profess their faith, enter the water, are submerged, and emerge again, they vividly proclaim the transformative power of the gospel. While ceremonies may vary in detail, the main essentials remain consistent: the candidate’s confession of faith in Jesus Christ, the use of water sufficient for the act (preferably immersion), and the invocation of the Triune name. In this way, baptism stands as a joyful demonstration of the believer’s new life, fulfilling Christ’s command “to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them” (Matthew 28:19). |
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