Baptism Is Symbolic and Ceremonial
Not Mystical

Baptism is an important topic for several reasons.

One, it featured so prominently at the beginning of the New Testament that it became a nickname for the first preacher, John the Baptist (a phrase used no less than fifteen times in the Gospels).

John baptized hundreds and he preached what became known as the baptism of repentance (Mark 1:4).

Although Jesus baptized no one personally, under His leadership, the disciples continued this tradition (Johmn 4:2).

Second, and most importantly, after Jesus rose from the dead and before He ascended into heaven, He clearly commanded His disciples to evangelize everywhere and baptize those who believed. Jesus’ instrucions clearly state:

Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. (Matthew 28:19)

All of that is to say we can’t be dismissive about this important issue. We need to understand it as best we can and apply to our ministries. [Read more…] about What Is The Meaning Of Baptism