The phrase, "the baptism of John", is found many times in the New testament. It is, most often and by most "bible scholars", representative of ONLY the water immersions John the Baptist administered. That is a totally false representation. In fact, as we will establish with this study, the phrase is more often that not, in reference to the message John was fore-ordained to preach, as well as the water "baptisms" he administered.
This misrepresentation contributes, in a large part, to the confusion surrounding the purpose and practice of today's water "baptism".
It is absolutely critical that the bible student understand that the term "baptizO", from which our English term "baptize" was transliterated, had several differing intents and purposes of application within the Greek language.
The term "baptizO" was used in the written language of the New Testament era (ancient Greek) to define, not only water immersions, but also any involvement with, or devotion to, any particular ism, or belief. As well as implying a physical immersion, the term "baptizO" also means to take on as a covering. For example, if one were to adhere to witchcraft, that one would be "baptizOed" in the name of (doctrine of) witchcraft.
A perfect example of what I'm saying can be referenced in Paul's question to "certain disciples" in Acts 19:1-5, "And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized?" (in today's language, 'what have you been taught?') "And they said, Unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus."
These "certain disciples" had NOT been taught the doctrine of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, nor had they been made aware of the concept of the Holy Triune, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, because they didn't even know there was a Holy Ghost, "We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost."
They had only received the preparatory water "baptism" (immersion) administered by John, the "baptism of repentance", the baptism that only PREPARED them for the coming of the Lord. Knowing they had not understood the concept of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost, Paul then preached to them the "baptism" of Jesus Christ, that soul saving immersion into that faith which comes upon acceptance of the death, burial, and resurrection of the only begotten Son of God unto eternal life.
If anyone has questions or needs further clarification of this very important lesson, be sure to ask. All input will be appreciated.~
If anyone has questions or needs further clarification of this very important lesson, be sure to ask. All input will be appreciated.~
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