Baptism
Quick answer
A washing with water marking repentance, cleansing, and union with Christ in his death and resurrection.
Overview
John's baptism was a public act of repentance, preparing Israel for the Messiah. Christian baptism, instituted by Jesus, signifies cleansing from sin and union with Christ — "buried with him" and "raised" to new life (Rom 6). It is one of the genuinely contested topics across traditions (mode, meaning, infant vs. believer), which the denominational panel will address.
Where it appears
- Matthew 3:6
They were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins.
- Matthew 3:16
Jesus, when he was baptized, went up directly from the water: and behold, the heavens were opened to him. He saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove, and coming on him.
Resources, by level
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