What key passages of Scripture on baptism might help me better understand the background and meaning of baptism?
• How John the Baptist’s baptisms prepared the way for the coming Messiah: • Matthew 3:1-12 • Luke 3:1-20 • Mark 1:2-8 • The record of Jesus’ baptism: • Matthew 3:13-17 • Luke 3:21-23 • Mark 1:9-11 • Early church baptisms and teachings about baptism: • Matthew 28:18-20 ~ Baptism commanded as part of Christ’s “Great Commission.” • Acts 2:38 ~ Baptism points to our forgiveness from sin. • Acts 16:25-33 ~ Baptism was practiced as evidence of a new-found faith. • Romans 6:3-4 ~ Baptism points to our participation in the burial and resurrection of Christ. • 1 Corinthians 12:13 ~ Baptism points to our inclusion in the Body of Christ by the Holy Spirit. (Also, Galatians 3:26, 27) • Titus 3:4-6 ~ Baptism points to our renewal and regeneration by the Holy Spirit. • 1 Peter 3:21-22 ~ Baptism points to our having a clear conscience before God. • Why did Jesus have to be baptized? If He were perfect as the Bible says, what would be the point of His being baptized? In Matthew 3:15, Jesus answers th
