Baptism has long been a contentious issue in the Church of Jesus Christ. Three chief questions arise:
1. Concerning the Meaning of Baptism: What does Baptism Signify?
The Shorter Catechism has a masterful and comprehensive answer: “Baptism is a sacrament, wherein the washing with water in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, doth signify and seal our ingrafting into Christ, and partaking of the benefits of the covenant of grace, and our engagement to be the Lord’s” (Ans. 94).
2. Concerning the Subjects of Baptism: Who should be Baptised?
The Shorter Catechism again rightly and succinctly states the Biblical position: “Baptism is not to be administered to any that are out of the visible church, till they profess their faith in Christ, and obedience to Him; but the infants of such as are members of the visible church are to be baptized” (Ans. 95).
For more explanation, see:
- Subjects of Baptism – by William MacIntyre
- Should Infants be Baptised? – by Keith M Watkins
3. Concerning the Mode of Baptism: How should Baptism be Administered?
The Westminster Confession of Faith summarises the teaching of Scripture: “Dipping of the person into the water is not necessary; but Baptism is rightly administered by pouring, or sprinkling water upon the person” (28:3).
For more explanation, see:
- Mode of Baptism– by William MacIntyre