InstaStudy

The Apostolic Pattern of Water Baptism

An exploration of the biblical record concerning water baptism, focusing on the authority, formula, and recipients of this essential ordinance as practiced by the early church.

1. The Authority for Baptism

1.1 Jesus' Commission

Verses: Matthew 28:18; Matthew 28:19
  • Jesus declared all authority in heaven and earth belonged to Him.
  • He commanded His disciples to make more disciples and baptize them.
  • The singular 'name' in the commission refers to His supreme authority.

1.2 The Apostolic Interpretation

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 10:48
  • The Apostles consistently understood and applied the commission by baptizing in the name of Jesus.
  • This was their uniform practice throughout the early church.
  • The name of Jesus embodies the full revelation of the one God.

2. The Baptism of John and Its Purpose

2.1 John's Baptism of Repentance

Verses: Mark 1:4; Acts 19:3
  • John's baptism was specifically for repentance from sins.
  • It served to prepare the way for the coming Messiah.
  • It did not include the full revelation of Jesus' redemptive work or His name for salvation.

2.2 The Need for Christian Baptism

Verses: Acts 19:1-6
  • Disciples who had only received John's baptism were subsequently re-baptized.
  • This re-baptism was performed in the name of the Lord Jesus.
  • It was necessary for them to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

3. The Apostles and Their Baptism

3.1 Early Disciples and John's Baptism

Verses: John 1:35-40; John 3:22; John 4:1-2
  • Some of the apostles were initially disciples of John the Baptist.
  • Jesus' own disciples also baptized, likely in a preparatory manner.
  • This occurred before Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection, which established the new covenant.

3.2 The New Covenant and Pentecost

Verses: Acts 2:1-4; Acts 2:38
  • The day of Pentecost marked the inauguration of the new covenant and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
  • Peter commanded those present to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.
  • This was the full revelation of the plan of salvation for the church age.

3.3 Identification with Christ's Work

Verses: Romans 6:3-4; Colossians 2:11-12
  • Christian water baptism is a symbolic burial with Christ.
  • It signifies identification with His death, burial, and resurrection.
  • This vital identification is accomplished through the power and authority of the name of Jesus.

4. The Consistent Apostolic Practice

4.1 Peter's Command on Pentecost

Verses: Acts 2:38
  • Peter instructed the multitude to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.
  • This baptism was for the remission of sins.
  • It was also the gateway to receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit.

4.2 Philip's Ministry in Samaria

Verses: Acts 8:12; Acts 8:16
  • Believers in Samaria, both men and women, were baptized by Philip.
  • They were baptized specifically in the name of the Lord Jesus.
  • The Holy Spirit was subsequently received after this baptism.

4.3 Paul's Conversion and Baptism

Verses: Acts 9:17-18; Acts 22:16
  • Paul was baptized by Ananias after his encounter with Jesus.
  • He was commanded to wash away his sins, calling on the name of the Lord.
  • This demonstrates the universal application of baptism in Jesus' name for all believers.