Online Bible Study - Foundations of Faith

Baptism

From this word study we learn that the way or method to be baptized is not specified in the Bible. Baptism is administered by using water, ordinary water. The water can be applied to the body of the person being baptized in any manner. Often baptism is administered by submerging a person under the water. Sometimes water is applied only to the head or forehead of the one being baptized. Baptism can be as little as a drop of water, or it can be a great amount. Baptism can take place by immersing, pouring, sprinkling, washing, dripping, or dunking. According to the Bible, there is no single or required method of applying the water. One way is just as acceptable and valid to God as the other. The method of baptism must not be made or become a matter of faith. Mutual respect must move each of us to accept any baptism that is administered in faith, with water and the Word, in the name of the Triune God.

Who is to be Baptized?
The Bible leaves absolutely no doubt about who is to be baptized. If we look at God's word in Matthew 28:19 we find the answer. Jesus commanded His disciples, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them (all nations) in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." Who is included in "all nations?" When a government census is taken, who is counted? Each and every living person, from the newborn less than 1 minute old, to person who is more than 100 years of age. Therefore, age is not a factor in determining who is to be baptized.

Rather, we know that sinners must be baptized. Sinners are all people who have broken the Law of God. Adam and Eve were the first people to break God's Law. Through their sin, ".sin entered the world, and death through sin, and in this way death passed to all men, for all have sinned" (Romans 5: 12). From this verse we know that all people in the world who die have sinned. Simple logic then tells us that if a new born baby can die, it must have sin and therefore must be in need of baptism. So, not only are mature adults to be baptized, but children are also included in God's command and promise of baptism.

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