Baptism

Baptism
RELATED TOPICS	Believer's baptism, Infant baptism, Baptismal regeneration Baptism of Jesus Baptism of the Holy Spirit Becoming a Christian
SERMONS, ESSAYS AND OPINIONS	* Baptism (G.G.) The Necessity of Baptism (AmericanCatholic) Easton's Bible Dictionary entry on Christian Baptism
CONTENTS

Baptism refers to the sprinkling of, or submersion in, water of a new Christian. It represents the person's cleansing from all sin by the death of Jesus Christ.

Although the word 'baptism' usually refers to baptism by water, it can be used metaphorically, for example "baptism by fire".

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Etymology

The word "baptism" is derived from the Greek verb Βαπτιζω (baptizo), which means "to immerse" or "to baptize". The noun form βαπτισμος (baptismos) can mean "dipping" or "baptism".

Theological viewpoints

Most Christians agree on the importance of baptism, although a few denominations (such as the Salvation Army) do not practice baptism. Most agree that a Christian baptism requires three elements: water; it must be done in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit; and faith.

There are a variety of opinions, however, regarding who should be baptized (must the person being baptized profess faith themself, or can parents of faith bring their children to be baptized?), how much water is required (is full immersion required or is a sprinkling sufficient?), and what baptism actually means (does it actually bring about forgiveness or only symbolize forgiveness?).

Infant baptism versus Believer's baptism

In many denominations (including Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy and Anglicanism), infants are baptized.

In some denominations (including Baptist), only an adult who believes in the death and resurrection of Jesus may be baptized.

Symbolism versus Baptismal regeneration

In Protestant denominations, baptism is generally regarded as an act that simply symbolizes forgiveness and new life. In Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy, however, it is taught that God actually brings about forgiveness through the physical action of baptism, a teaching known as baptismal regeneration.

Links

• Wikipedia - Baptism

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