Baptism Handbook
Walking with People into the Water
This handbook aims to equip you to confidently guide individuals through conversations about baptism, drawing on biblical truths and practical insights.
I. Core Principles and Approach
The Discipleship Journey
Create a System for Study: Develop a simple system (e.g., OneNote, Evernote) for jotting down thoughts and studies related to baptism.
Theological & Practical: Biblical teaching often contains truth (orthodoxy) and instruction on how to live out that truth (hortatory). This handbook follows that pattern.
Importance of Your Role: The Lord Jesus has commanded you to baptize people (Matthew 28:19).
Prioritizing the Text: Traditions and experiences are secondary to what the Bible says. The greatest benefit comes from your personal time in the text.
II. The "History" Phase
When someone expresses interest, the first step is to be a curious listener. Ask genuine questions to understand their story and where they are in their journey.
Key Theological Anchors
Gently explore their understanding of these core concepts. The goal isn't a theological exam, but to see if the foundational seeds of the gospel are present.
1. Sin
Do they have even the smallest sense that they are a sinner in need of saving? Are they aware of a disconnect between them and God?
2. Identity of Jesus
Who do they believe Jesus is? Is he just a good teacher, or do they see him as something more?
3. Salvation
Do they understand their need for a Savior? Do they grasp that they cannot save themselves?
If you don't feel comfortable sharing the Gospel message based on these points, seek guidance to learn how.
Previous Baptisms and Re-baptism
Always ask if they have been baptized before. The Greek word for sprinkling, rhantizo"Rhantizo" means to sprinkle or scatter. It's used for ceremonial cleansing but not for the act of baptism., is distinct from baptizo"Baptizo" means to dip, plunge, or immerse. This is the word consistently used for baptism.. For those considering re-baptism, focus on repentance and the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice (1 Peter 3:18).
Age and Maturity
There is no specific "age of accountability" in the Bible. Parents are often the best guides. We generally advocate waiting for children under eight. The decision must come from the individual's genuine understanding and need.
III. Engaging with the Text
A. Old Testament "Design Patterns"
The OT provides a "design pattern" of God bringing his people through chaotic death waters to new life.
B. Gospels
C. Book of Acts: A History of Response
Acts shows the immediate response of belief and baptism, demonstrating God's contextual work.
D. Paul's Letters: The Meaning of Baptism
Paul's writings describe the deep theological significance of our baptism.
IV. Navigating Challenges
Is Baptism Necessary for Salvation?
The church's position is that baptism is not essential for salvation. However, in the New Testament, belief and baptism were always immediate and intertwined.
Mode of Baptism
The practice of the church is immersion, based on the meaning of the Greek word baptizo"Baptizo" means to dip, plunge, or immerse. This is the word consistently used for baptism..
Unity and Peacemaking
Baptism, designed to unite, is often a point of division. Meet challenges with love, always pointing to the text as the primary authority.
Baptism as a Beginning
Baptism is a springboard, not a finish line. The ongoing practice after baptism is daily repentance and remembering our new identity in Christ.
V. Concluding Thoughts
Always point people towards Jesus and God's Word. Walk with people by genuinely listening. The goal is to equip people to walk into the water with a deep understanding of its beauty and significance.
Remember that baptism is a collision of heaven and earth, a beautiful and mysterious union with Christ's death and resurrection.