How Are We to Be Baptized?

(1) The Greek word baptizo (from bapto) means "to dip," "to immerse," or to "sink." See the booklet, What About Baptism, by Richard Strauss for more information (see note below on how to get a copy of this booklet).

"As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water." (Matthew 3:16)

"...Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and Philip baptized him. When they came up out of the water..." (Acts 8:38-39)

(2) The founders of the denominations agree:

  • Martin Luther: "I would have those who are to be baptized to be entirely immersed, as the word imports and the mystery signifies."
  • John Calvin: "The word baptize signifies to immerse. It is certain that immersion was the practice of the ancient church."
  • John Wesley: "Buried with Him, alluding to baptizing by immersion according to the custom of the first church."

Conclusion: These Scriptures indicate, and it has been traditionally accepted, that early believers were immersed in water.

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