The Meaning of Baptism by Myra Kahn Adams for Town Hall
Thanks for joining our Bible study today. Most readers have attended or participated in baptism — the ceremonial sacrament of faith in the name of Jesus Christ. Then, there’s the precious infant often wearing a frilly white gown passed down a generation or two — usually crying after being sprinkled with water. The adoring family pledges they will raise their child in faith, and guests anticipate brunch.
Why does a baby need to be baptized? I pose that question, having chosen to be baptized at age 20 as a non-practicing convert from Judaism.
The biblical basis is found in the book of Acts when Peter said:
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We love helping others and believe that’s one of the reasons we are chosen as Ambassadors of the Kingdom, to serve God’s children. We look to the Greatest Commandment as our Powering force.
“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call” (Act 2: 38-39).
In Greek, the word “teknon” refers to children or infants, and Greek is the original language of Acts and the entire New Testament.
These days, more often than not, children grow and reject the baptismal promises made on their behalf. Yet, sometimes come back, especially when they become parents and understand how moral grounding in the tenets of Christianity can be a positive behavioral influence.
Conversely, adults who choose to be baptized proudly engage in a powerful act of love and profession of faith in Him and His word.
Here is a beautifully phrased definition of Baptism:
“Baptism is the outward act that symbolizes the inward phenomenon of coming to and accepting Jesus Christ as real, as God incarnate, as the sacrificial means by which those who believe in him can forever be reconciled to God. The purpose of baptism is to give visual testimony of our commitment to Christ. It is the first step of discipleship.”
