And Moses brought Aaron and his sons, and washed them with water.
Leviticus 8:6 (KJV)
Washed – Baptism is frequently thought of as a Christian event. The first form of New Testament baptism is found in the story of John the Baptist. But John wasn’t a Christian, he was a Jew. Why would John practice baptism if baptism was a Christian thing, especially at a time when Christians weren’t yet a people?
Continue reading “Water Baptism”John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire:
Luke 3:16 (KJV)
You – Let’s play the pronoun game. Looking at the two instances of the pronoun “you,” which one identifies 21st century Christians and which one refers to the people that are currently standing in the presence of John during the 1st century? Continue reading “The Pronoun Game”
For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.
1 Corinthians 1:17 (KJV)
12. As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ. 13. For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised, that they may glory in your flesh.
Galatians 6:12-13 (KJV)
Baptism and Circumcision – With verses like these, it would appear that Paul taught against baptism and circumcision, or at least against the physical action. But did he really? Continue reading “Baptism and Circumcision”
