InstaStudy

The Apostles' Baptism in Water

An exploration of the New Testament accounts to determine if the apostles were baptized in water, and the significance of water baptism.

1. John's Baptism and Jesus

1.1 Jesus' Submission to John's Baptism

Verses: Matthew 3:13-17; Mark 1:9-11; Luke 3:21-22
  • Jesus, though sinless, was baptized by John in the Jordan River.
  • This act fulfilled all righteousness and set an example.
  • The Father audibly affirmed Jesus, and the Spirit descended upon Him.

1.2 The Nature of John's Baptism

Verses: Matthew 3:5-6; Mark 1:4-5; Luke 3:3
  • John's baptism was a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.
  • People confessed their sins and were baptized in the Jordan River.
  • It prepared the way for the Messiah.

2. Disciples Making Disciples

2.1 Jesus' Disciples Baptizing

Verses: John 3:22; John 4:1-2
  • Jesus' disciples were baptizing more people than John.
  • Jesus Himself did not baptize, but His disciples did.
  • This baptism was likely similar to John's baptism of repentance.

2.2 Following Jesus

Verses: Matthew 4:18-22; Mark 1:16-20; Luke 5:1-11
  • The apostles left their former occupations to follow Jesus.
  • They became disciples and learned from Him directly.
  • Their initial commitment involved a change in lifestyle and allegiance.

3. The Great Commission and Baptism

3.1 Jesus' Command to Baptize

Verses: Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:15-16
  • Jesus commanded His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them.
  • Baptism is linked to believing and receiving salvation.
  • This baptism is performed in the name of Jesus Christ.

3.2 Apostolic Practice of Baptism

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 10:48; Acts 19:5
  • The apostles consistently baptized new believers in the name of Jesus Christ.
  • Baptism was understood as an essential step of obedience and identification with Christ.
  • This practice aligns with the understanding of the singular name of the Godhead.

4. Inferences and Conclusions

4.1 Likelihood of Apostolic Baptism

Verses: Acts 1:21-22
  • Given that the apostles were followers of Jesus from the beginning, and that Jesus' disciples were baptizing, it is highly probable that the apostles themselves were baptized.
  • The apostles' consistent practice of baptizing new believers in the name of Jesus Christ reinforces this likelihood.
  • While there is no explicit verse stating 'the apostles were baptized,' the evidence strongly suggests they were.

4.2 Significance of Water Baptism

Verses: Romans 6:3-4; Colossians 2:12; 1 Peter 3:21
  • Water baptism is a symbolic burial with Christ and a resurrection to new life.
  • It is an act of obedience and identification with Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection.
  • It is an appeal to God for a good conscience and a necessary step in receiving salvation.