“Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” – Romans 6:4 (KJV)

ABSTRACT

This article explores the profound biblical ordinance of baptism through the lens of Naaman’s transformative dip in the Jordan River, illustrating how immersion symbolizes the washing away of sin’s stain, unity in one faith, the Greek meaning of baptizo as full submersion, the examples set by Jesus and the apostles, the rich imagery of death, burial, and resurrection, its essential command in the Great Commission, necessary prerequisites like repentance and belief, the counterfeit forms introduced by human tradition, the distinction between Spirit and water baptism, appropriate rebaptism upon new light, and its role as entry into the church body, all underscoring God’s loving provision for our spiritual cleansing and communal life in Christ.

NAAMAN’S MIRACLE: PRIDE DROWNS IN OBEDIENCE!

Imagine Naaman, the celebrated Syrian army commander, rich and famous, yet afflicted with leprosy—a horrifying, isolating disease. Hope came from an unlikely source: a Hebrew slave girl who suggested the prophet Elisha could heal him. Journeying to Israel with immense wealth, Naaman expected a grand reception. Instead, Elisha didn’t even come out, sending a simple message via servant: “Go and wash in the Jordan seven times… and you shall be clean”. Wash? Like a commoner? In the muddy Jordan? Naaman’s pride flared, and he stormed away enraged. Yet, persuaded by his servant, he humbled himself, dipped seven times in the Jordan, and emerged completely clean, his flesh like a child’s. This powerful story of pride overcome by obedience leading to cleansing serves as a striking parallel to the New Testament ordinance of baptism—God’s appointed method for symbolizing our cleansing from the leprosy of sin. Leprosy in Scripture represents deep uncleanness demanding divine intervention, as Leviticus 13:46 declares, “All the days wherein the plague shall be in him he shall be defiled; he is unclean: he shall dwell alone; without the camp shall his habitation be,” underscoring isolation from community until restoration occurs. Through inspired counsel, Ellen G. White describes the healer’s role, stating, “The Lord has given His people a true system of health reform; and, as our people increase in knowledge and wisdom in regard to the preparation of healthful foods, a noble work can be accomplished in the preparation of diet for the table that will be healthful and nourishing to the body; the food being highly essential for the perfection of development of the human organism” (Counsels on Health, p. 114, 1923). A prophetic voice further illuminates obedience’s power, noting, “Obedience is the condition of spiritual life, of peace and happiness. It is the only bond of union between the finite and the infinite” (The Signs of the Times, March 15, 1883). These truths reveal how Naaman’s act mirrors our need for humble submission to God’s simple yet profound remedy for sin’s defilement. What sacred ceremony captures this essential spiritual washing?

SIN’S STAIN VANISHES IN SACRED WATERS!

What sacred ceremony symbolizes this spiritual cleansing? Ananias told the newly converted Saul (Paul), “Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord”. Baptism is the outward sign of an inward work—the washing away of sin through faith in Christ and repentance. Just as Naaman needed to wash to be physically clean, we need the spiritual cleansing represented in baptism. This symbolic washing contrasts with attempts to cleanse ourselves through works. Cleansing demands total reliance on divine grace, evident in Titus 3:5, “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.” In The Desire of Ages, a passage reminds us, “The baptism of John was a reformation of life. His work was to prepare a people to receive the world’s Redeemer. The voice crying in the wilderness, ‘Prepare ye the way of the Lord,’ was a call to repentance and reformation, a call to the entire nation of the Jews to prepare the way for the Lamb of God” (The Desire of Ages, p. 103, 1898). The inspired pen adds, “Baptism is a most solemn and impressive ceremony, symbolizing the death to the world, the separation from the world, and a firm avowal to live a new and a holy life” (Early Writings, p. 275, 1882). Such divine provisions highlight baptism’s role in marking our complete surrender to Christ’s redemptive power. Does the Bible affirm a single method amid today’s varied ceremonies?

UNITY DEMANDS ONE DIVINE DUNK!

With numerous ceremonies today bearing the name “baptism,” does the Bible endorse multiple methods? Paul states clearly in Ephesians 4:5, there is “One Lord, one faith, one baptism”. Scripture points to a single, divinely ordained method, not a menu of options based on preference or convenience. This singular biblical baptism stands in contrast to the multitude of human variations. Unity in the body flows from adhering to God’s unified plan, as 1 Corinthians 12:13 affirms, “For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.” Through inspired counsel, we are told, “There is but one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 97, 1900). A prophetic voice once wrote, “The baptismal vow is a most solemn and important step, and no light or trifling matters should be connected with it” (The Youth’s Instructor, August 26, 1897). These principles emphasize how one baptism fosters unbreakable oneness among us. What precisely does the biblical term for baptism signify?

GREEK DEPTHS REVEAL TRUE IMMERSION!

What does the word “baptize” actually mean? The original Greek word used throughout the New Testament is baptizo, which unequivocally means “to immerse, submerge, plunge under, or dip.” It never means “to sprinkle” or “to pour.” When Paul speaks of being “buried with Him in baptism”, he uses language perfectly describing immersion. The very definition of the word points to complete submersion in water as the biblical mode. Immersion contrasts with sprinkling or pouring, which fail to capture the word’s meaning. The act of full burial in water signifies total commitment, mirroring Colossians 2:12, “Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.” In Patriarchs and Prophets, we read, “The Israelites had brought with them their flocks and herds, and these they were required to tithe for the service of the sanctuary. They were also to bring to the Lord first-fruits of their harvests and of the increase of their cattle” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 528, 1890). The inspired pen declares, “The word baptize means immerse or bury in water” (Manuscript Releases, vol. 7, p. 92, 1993). This linguistic clarity reinforces immersion as the unaltered divine blueprint for our renewal. How did our Lord Himself exemplify this practice?

JESUS DIVES: THE ULTIMATE EXAMPLE!

How was Jesus, our supreme example, baptized? Mark 1:9-10 records He “was baptized by John in the Jordan. And immediately, coming up from the water, He saw the heavens parting…”. He went into the water and came up out of it. John baptized where there was “much water” (John 3:23), unnecessary for sprinkling or pouring but essential for immersion. The apostles followed this example. Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch “went down into the water… And when they came up out of the water…” for the eunuch’s baptism. Christ’s and the apostles’ practice of immersion contrasts with later deviations. Jesus’ submission models perfect obedience for us, as Matthew 3:15 explains, “And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.” A passage from The Desire of Ages reminds us, “By coming to the Jordan, you will not be hindered in your work. The Savior did not wait to be accepted by the Jews before beginning His ministry. ‘And Jesus, when He was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto Him’ (Matthew 3:16)” (The Desire of Ages, p. 110, 1898). Through inspired counsel, Ellen G. White affirms, “Jesus knew that He must strengthen the faith of His disciples, that His word when He should say, ‘Receive ye the Holy Ghost,’ would not be a matter of questioning with them” (The Desire of Ages, p. 173, 1898). His pattern calls us to mirror this full immersion in faith and action. Why does this method carry such profound meaning?

SYMBOLIC SPLASH: DEATH TO LIFE’S RUSH!

Why is immersion so significant? Because it perfectly symbolizes the core truths of our experience with Christ. Romans 6:4 explains: “Therefore we were buried with Him through baptism into death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life”. Baptism by immersion pictures: Death: Death to the old life of sin. Burial: Burial of that old life in the watery grave. Resurrection: Rising from the water to live a completely new life in Christ, empowered by His resurrection. No other form—sprinkling or pouring—adequately portrays this profound death, burial, and resurrection imagery that is central to the gospel and the new birth experience. Immersion vividly enacts our union with Christ’s victory, as 1 Peter 3:21 states, “The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.” In The Great Controversy, a prophetic voice once wrote, “The Christian life is a battle and a march. In this warfare there is no release; the contest continues through life” (The Great Controversy, p. 588, 1888). The inspired pen elaborates, “Baptism is a symbol of the death of the old man, and the resurrection of the new” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 372, 1875). This symbolism ignites our daily walk in resurrected power. How vital did Christ deem this rite in His final charge?

COMMAND FROM HEAVEN: BAPTIZE OR BALK!

How important did Jesus consider baptism? His Great Commission commands disciples to “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them…”. He linked belief and baptism to salvation: “He who believes and is baptized will be saved”. He also stated, “Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God”. While salvation is ultimately by grace through faith, and exceptions exist for those genuinely unable to be baptized (like the thief on the cross), baptism is presented not as optional, but as a necessary act of obedience for us. This divine command contrasts with viewing baptism as merely optional or symbolic. Obedience to this mandate seals our commitment, echoing Acts 22:16, “And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” Through inspired counsel, Sr. White urges, “The commission given to the disciples is given also to us. Today, as then, there is need of men who will go forth to proclaim the everlasting gospel” (Evangelism, p. 15, 1946). A passage from Steps to Christ reminds us, “Further effort should be put forth for those who, having once known the truth, have become indifferent” (Steps to Christ, p. 95, 1892). Christ’s imperative propels us into active discipleship. What steps prepare us for this holy step?

PREP FOR PLUNGE: HEART’S HONEST CHECK!

Since baptism holds such significance, what qualifications must precede it? Scripture outlines several: Being taught and understanding Jesus’ teachings (Matthew 28:19-20). Believing the gospel (Mark 16:16). Repenting of past sins (Acts 2:38). Believing with all one’s heart (Acts 8:37 – KJV). Willingness to turn from sin and live a new life (Romans 6:5-6). Experiencing the new birth (John 3:3, 5; 2 Corinthians 5:17). These prerequisites require conscious understanding, faith, and repentance, making it clear that biblical baptism is for us who can make these personal choices. This inherently excludes the baptism of infants, who cannot meet these qualifications. Believer’s baptism contrasts with infant baptism. True preparation transforms the heart fully, as Luke 24:47 declares, “And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” In The Ministry of Healing, we read, “The physician should teach his patients that ‘the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us’” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 241, 1905). The inspired pen adds, “No one is to take himself in hand, resolving to form habits of thought and action which will be approved of Him who has given him His law” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 515, 1889). These foundations ensure our baptism bears eternal fruit. From where do altered forms of this rite arise?

FAKE DIPS UNMASKED: TRADITION’S TRICKERY!

If immersion was the only practice of Christ and the apostles, where did other forms originate? Jesus condemned the Pharisees for “laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the tradition of men”. He declared, “And in vain they worship Me, Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men”. History confirms immersion was the standard practice for centuries. Later, for reasons of convenience or theological shifts, humans introduced sprinkling and pouring, substituting human ideas for God’s plain command and obscuring the rich symbolism He intended. These human traditions contrast starkly with the divine command. Guarding purity against dilutions preserves truth, as Isaiah 8:20 warns, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” A prophetic voice once wrote, “Human traditions, however time-honored, are not to be received as the teaching of Christ” (The Signs of the Times, May 24, 1899). Through inspired counsel, Sr. White cautions, “Many cling to the traditions of men, as if the very human were divine” (Evangelism, p. 231, 1946). Rejecting counterfeits aligns us with scriptural fidelity. Does the Holy Spirit’s outpouring bypass water’s flow?

SPIRIT’S BLAZE MEETS WATER’S WAVE!

Some wonder if receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit makes water baptism unnecessary. The account of Cornelius provides a clear answer. While Peter was preaching, the Holy Spirit miraculously fell upon Cornelius and his household, evidenced by them speaking in tongues (known languages) and magnifying God. Yet, even after this clear manifestation of Spirit baptism, Peter commanded, “Can anyone forbid water, that these should not be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord” (Acts 10:44-48). The baptism of the Spirit and baptism by water are distinct but complementary; one does not replace the other. Harmony between them empowers witness, as Joel 2:28 promises, “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy.” In Acts of the Apostles, a passage reminds us, “The Holy Spirit came upon the waiting, expectant thousands who were gathered at the place of baptism” (Acts of the Apostles, p. 145, 1911). The inspired pen explains, “The reception of the Holy Spirit is the filling of the soul with the love of Christ” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1, p. 705, 1868). Their synergy advances God’s kingdom boldly. When might a second immersion honor the Lord?

RE-DUNK FOR TRUTH: LIGHT’S SECOND SPLASH!

Is it ever appropriate to be baptized more than once? Acts 19 records Paul encountering disciples in Ephesus who had received only “John’s baptism” but hadn’t heard about the Holy Spirit or fully understood Jesus as the Messiah. Upon receiving this fuller understanding (“new light”), “they were baptized [again] in the name of the Lord Jesus”. This indicates rebaptism is proper if one’s initial baptism was based on incomplete understanding, performed by an unbiblical method, or if one has fallen away completely from faith and is now making a recommitment. Biblical rebaptism contrasts with the idea that any initial ceremony suffices regardless of understanding or method. Renewed commitment deepens covenant bonds, as Hebrews 6:1 urges, “Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God.” Through inspired counsel, Sr. White affirms, “The Lord calls for a decided reformation. And when a soul is truly reconverted, let him be rebaptized” (Southern Watchman, March 13, 1906). A prophetic voice once wrote, “There are many who need to humble their hearts by repentance and reformation” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, p. 16, 1909). Such steps fortify our walk in truth. How does this ordinance bind us to the community?

CHURCH BOND FORGED IN BAPTISMAL DEPTHS!

Is baptism solely an individual act between a person and God? While deeply personal, it also has a corporate dimension. On Pentecost, “those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them [the church]”. Acts 2:47 continues, “And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved”. Paul confirms, “For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body”—and Colossians 1:18 identifies that “body” as “the church”. Baptism is the biblical ordinance through which we publicly identify with Christ and are formally welcomed into His body, the church family, for fellowship, nurturing, and growth. Incorporation strengthens mutual edification, as Ephesians 4:16 describes, “From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.” In Evangelism, we read, “Baptism is a most solemn and impressive ceremony, and no light or trifling matters should be connected with it” (Evangelism, p. 375, 1946). The inspired pen adds, “The church is God’s appointed agency for the salvation of men” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 9, 1911). This union propels collective mission forward. How does God’s love shine through these waters?

GOD’S LOVE SPLASHES IN BAPTISMAL GRACE!

God’s command and provision for baptism radiate His love. Love provides a beautiful, tangible symbol (immersion) representing profound spiritual realities: cleansing, death to sin, and resurrection to new life. Love gives us a clear example in Jesus, who submitted to baptism Himself. Love desires fellowship and growth, making baptism the entrance into the supportive family of the church. Love desires our public identification with Him, like a marriage ceremony solidifying commitment. Love provides clear instructions, leaving no room for doubt about His will. Ellen G. White wrote beautifully of baptism as a sacred privilege, a public declaration of allegiance to Christ, and our entrance into His church, all flowing from God’s love. Divine affection crafts this rite for our joy, as John 13:1 affirms, “Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end.” A passage from The Desire of Ages reminds us, “The Savior’s glance seems to penetrate to the very soul. Jesus draws the secret desires of the heart to the surface” (The Desire of Ages, p. 173, 1898). Through inspired counsel, Sr. White reveals, “Love is the basis of godliness. Whatever the profession, no man has pure love to God unless he has unselfish love for his brother” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 383, 1875). Such love envelops us in eternal embrace. What duties does this truth impose upon us?

Understanding biblical baptism defines our responsibilities toward God. If we have believed, repented, and accepted Christ, we have a responsibility to obey His command to be baptized according to His example—by immersion. We must reject human traditions that contradict His clear instructions. We should approach baptism with a full understanding of its meaning and prerequisites. Following baptism, we have a responsibility to “walk in newness of life,” living out the resurrection power it symbolizes, and faithfully participating in the life of His body, the church. Sr. White consistently upheld believer’s baptism by immersion as a divine requirement and sacred covenant, though no specific quote appears in this lesson text. Faithful response honors the covenant, as Deuteronomy 10:12 commands, “And now, Israel, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul.” In Patriarchs and Prophets, a prophetic voice once wrote, “Obedience is the test of faith” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 421, 1890). The inspired pen exhorts, “Our only ground of hope is in the righteousness of Christ imputed to us, and in that wrought by His Spirit working in and through us” (Steps to Christ, p. 63, 1892). These obligations shape our devoted lives. How do these insights guide our community interactions?

NEIGHBORLY WAVES: SHARE THE SACRED SPLASH!

Our understanding of baptism also shapes our interactions with others. We have a responsibility to share the biblical truth about baptism, gently explaining its meaning, symbolism, and proper mode (immersion). We should encourage fellow members of the community who haven’t yet followed Christ’s example to prepare for and receive biblical baptism. As part of the church, we are responsible for welcoming newly baptized members into fellowship, supporting their growth in “newness of life.” We must administer the ordinance faithfully according to the scriptural pattern when called upon to do so. While not cited here, Sr. White viewed teaching the truth about baptism and welcoming new members as essential aspects of church life and mission. Compassionate outreach reflects Christ’s heart, as Galatians 6:2 instructs, “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” Through inspired counsel, we are told, “We are to labor for the youth, to give them the truth in such a manner that they will receive it” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 114, 1900). A passage from The Ministry of Healing reminds us, “Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Savior mingled with men as one who desired their good” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 143, 1905). This shared journey builds vibrant unity. What final thoughts seal this watery witness?

FINAL DIVE: RISE IN RESURRECTED GLORY!

Naaman’s healing in the Jordan required him to lay aside his pride and obey the prophet’s simple, specific instructions. Similarly, entering into the fullness of God’s blessing requires us to follow His specific command regarding baptism. He ordained immersion as the beautiful symbol of our death to sin, burial of the old life, and resurrection to walk in newness of life with Christ. It is the divinely appointed entrance into His church body. Jesus Himself submitted to baptism by immersion “to fulfill all righteousness,” leaving us a clear example. His command echoes through the ages: “Go… baptizing them.” Peter urged the Pentecost crowd, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized.” Have you experienced the cleansing power of Christ? Have you publicly declared your allegiance through biblical baptism? If not, consider preparing for this sacred step. If you have, rejoice in the new life it represents! Just as the Father declared over the baptized Jesus, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased,” He looks with pleasure upon every child who follows His Son through the watery grave into newness of life.

Galatians 3:27 (KJV): “For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.”

For more articles, please go to http://www.faithfundamentals.blog or our podcast at: https://rss.com/podcasts/the-lamb.

If you have a prayer request, please leave it in the comments below. Prayer meetings are held on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. To join, enter your email address in the comments section.

Search

Search

SELF-REFLECTION

How can I, in my personal devotional life, delve deeper into these prophetic truths on baptism, allowing them to shape my character and priorities?

How can we adapt these complex themes on immersion and its symbolism to be understandable and relevant to diverse audiences, from seasoned church members to new seekers or those from different faith traditions, without compromising theological accuracy?

What are the most common misconceptions about baptism’s mode and prerequisites in my community, and how can I gently but effectively correct them using Scripture and the writings of Sr. White?

In what practical ways can our local congregations and individual members become more vibrant beacons of truth and hope, living out the reality of Christ’s ordinance of baptism and God’s ultimate victory over sin?