Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: The term "Baptisest" is not found in traditional biblical texts or standard biblical lexicons. It appears to be a variant or a misspelling of "Baptist," which is more commonly associated with John the Baptist, a significant figure in the New Testament. The word "Baptist" itself is derived from the Greek word "baptistēs," meaning "one who baptizes." Biblical Context: In the New Testament, John the Baptist is a pivotal figure who prepares the way for Jesus Christ. He is known for his practice of baptizing repentant individuals in the Jordan River, symbolizing the washing away of sins and the preparation for the coming Messiah. The Gospel of Matthew introduces John the Baptist as follows: "In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea and saying, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near'" (Matthew 3:1-2). The Role of John the Baptist: John the Baptist's ministry is characterized by his call to repentance and his role as a forerunner to Jesus. He is described as fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah: "A voice of one calling in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him'" (Matthew 3:3). John's baptism was one of repentance, distinct from the later Christian baptism instituted by Jesus, which is associated with the Holy Spirit. Baptism in the New Testament: Baptism is a significant sacrament in Christianity, symbolizing the believer's identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself was baptized by John, marking the beginning of His public ministry. The Gospel of Mark records this event: "At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan" (Mark 1:9). Theological Significance: From a theological perspective, baptism represents a public declaration of faith and a commitment to follow Christ. It is an outward expression of an inward transformation, signifying the believer's cleansing from sin and rebirth into a new life in Christ. The Apostle Paul elaborates on this in his letter to the Romans: "We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may walk in newness of life" (Romans 6:4). John the Baptist's Legacy: John the Baptist's legacy is profound, as he is recognized as the last of the Old Testament prophets and the one who directly heralded the coming of Jesus. His message of repentance and his role in baptizing Jesus are foundational to the Christian understanding of baptism. Jesus Himself spoke highly of John, stating, "Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist" (Matthew 11:11). Conclusion: While "Baptisest" may not be a recognized term within biblical scholarship, the concept of baptism and the role of John the Baptist are central to Christian doctrine. Baptism remains a vital practice within the Christian faith, symbolizing repentance, purification, and the believer's union with Christ. Concordance Baptisest (1 Occurrence)John 1:25 Thesaurus Baptisest (1 Occurrence)...Baptisest (1 Occurrence). John 1:25 And they asked him and said to him, Why baptisest thou then, if thou art not the Christ, nor Elias, nor the prophet? (DBY). ... /b/baptisest.htm - 6k Baptising (6 Occurrences) Baptises (3 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |