LAMBO MICHAEL OLUFELA

C.A.C DOCTRINE AND PRACTICES

Definition of Baptism

Baptism is a Christian sacrament or rite of initiation that signifies the individual's entrance into
the Christian faith. Derived from the Greek word "baptizo," which means "to immerse" or "to
dip," baptism involves the symbolic or literal immersion of a person in water. In most Christian
denominations, baptism is seen as a sign of spiritual cleansing, a public declaration of faith, and
the means by which individuals are formally admitted into the Christian Church.

The act of baptism holds profound theological significance. It is viewed as an outward symbol of
an inward transformation. The water used in baptism represents purification from sin and the
washing away of the old life, allowing the baptized person to begin a new life in Christ. Some
denominations believe that baptism is necessary for salvation, while others see it as a vital, but
not essential, demonstration of faith.

Biblical Basis for Baptism

Baptism has its roots in the New Testament, where Jesus Christ himself was baptized by John the
Baptist in the Jordan River (Matthew 3:13-17). This event is foundational in Christian theology
because it underscores the importance of baptism in the life of a believer. Despite being sinless,
Jesus' baptism marked the beginning of his public ministry and served as an example for his
followers. It was at this moment that God the Father expressed His approval of Jesus, saying,
“This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”

After His resurrection, Jesus commanded His disciples to baptize believers. In Matthew 28:19-20,
often referred to as the Great Commission, Jesus said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all
nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching
them to observe all that I have commanded you.” This command has been pivotal in the practice
of baptism throughout Christian history.

Modes of Baptism

There are several modes of baptism practiced by different Christian traditions, each with its
theological and symbolic meanings:

 Immersion: This is the practice of fully immersing a person in water, symbolizing complete
cleansing from sin and death to the old self, followed by a resurrection to new life in Christ.
Denominations like the Baptists and the Eastern Orthodox Church prefer this method because
it closely follows the example of Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River.

 Pouring (Affusion): This method involves pouring water over the head of the baptized
person, symbolizing the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. It is commonly used in denominations
 like Roman Catholicism and Methodism. Theologically, pouring is associated with the
concept of the Holy Spirit being "poured out" upon believers (Acts 2:17).

 Sprinkling (Aspersion): This practice involves sprinkling water on the individual, usually
on the forehead. It is common in some Protestant traditions, particularly Presbyterianism.
Sprinkling is sometimes chosen for practical reasons, such as baptizing the sick or elderly, or
when full immersion is not feasible.

Infant Baptism vs. Believer's Baptism

There is significant theological debate within Christianity about the timing of baptism—
specifically whether it should be administered to infants or only to those old enough to profess
faith (known as believer's baptism).

i. Infant Baptism (Paedobaptism): Practiced by the Catholic Church, Orthodox Church,

Anglican Communion, and many Protestant denominations, infant baptism is seen as a
means of including children in the covenant community of the Church. These traditions
typically teach that baptism cleanses original sin (the sin inherited from Adam and Eve)
and begins the process of sanctification. The act is usually followed by confirmation later
in life, where the individual personally affirms their faith. Theological support for infant
baptism is drawn from the belief that baptism is a means of grace and from biblical
instances like the baptism of entire households (Acts 16:33).

ii. Believer's Baptism: In contrast, some denominations, such as Baptists, Pentecostals, and
others, emphasize that baptism should only be performed on individuals who have made a
conscious decision to follow Christ. These groups argue that baptism is a personal
expression of faith, and therefore should be reserved for those who can make a profession
of faith. They cite examples from the New Testament where baptism is preceded by belief
in Jesus (Acts 8:36-38).

Theological Importance of Baptism in Christianity

The importance of baptism in Christianity is rooted in its theological significance. Baptism

symbolizes key aspects of the Christian faith:

i. Union with Christ: Baptism signifies the believer's union with Christ in His death and
resurrection. Romans 6:3-4 states, "We were therefore buried with him through baptism
into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead...we too may live a new
life." Through baptism, Christians participate in the death of their old, sinful self and are
raised to new life in Christ.

ii. Forgiveness of Sins: Baptism is closely tied to the forgiveness of sins in many Christian
traditions. Acts 2:38 states, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of
Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.” In this sense, baptism is not just symbolic,
but a sacrament through which the grace of God operates to cleanse the person from sin.
iii. Reception of the Holy Spirit: In the New Testament, baptism is often associated with the
receiving of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38 connects baptism with the gift of the Holy Spirit:
“And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Many traditions hold that the Holy Spirit
is conferred at baptism, which empowers the believer to live a Christian life.

iv. Incorporation into the Body of Christ: Baptism is also a rite of incorporation into the
community of believers, the Church. As stated in 1 Corinthians 12:13, "For we were all
baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body." This incorporation into the Church signifies
that baptism is not just an individual experience but a communal one, bringing the baptized
into the family of God.

Sacrament or Ordinance?

Within Christianity, there is also a distinction between those who see baptism as a sacrament and
those who view it as an ordinance:

 Sacrament: The Catholic, Orthodox, and many Protestant traditions view baptism as a
sacrament, meaning it is a means through which God dispenses grace. In this view, baptism
is seen as more than symbolic; it is an act through which God works to bring about spiritual
change in the believer.

 Ordinance: Some Protestant groups, particularly Baptists, regard baptism as an ordinance.

This means that while baptism is important, it is primarily an act of obedience to Jesus’
command, and the grace associated with salvation comes through faith rather than the act of
baptism itself.

The Role of Baptism in Ecumenical Relations

The practice of baptism has been central in the dialogue between different Christian
denominations, especially in ecumenical discussions. Most Christian denominations recognize
each other's baptism as valid, provided it is performed with water and in the name of the Father,
Son, and Holy Spirit. This recognition of shared baptism has helped foster a sense of unity
among diverse Christian traditions, despite differences in other areas of doctrine.

Conclusion

In summary, baptism is one of the most significant rites in Christianity, symbolizing purification,
initiation into the faith, forgiveness of sins, and union with Christ. While different denominations
have varying theological interpretations of baptism, its central role in Christian life and worship
is universally acknowledged. Whether as a sacrament or ordinance, baptism continues to be a
profound expression of Christian faith and identity.