Baptism
Definition
Baptism is the rite or ordinance by which persons are admitted into the Church of Christ. It is a public profession of faith and discipleship. In the ancient world, washing or bathing was commonly associated with prayer, sacrifice, and cleansing from sin; baptism belongs within that broader setting of religious ablution.
Biblical Usage
Baptism signifies admission to Christ’s Church and public identification with faith and discipleship. The supplied material also connects baptism with washing and with the religious use of water in preparation for prayer, sacrifice, or expiation.
Historical Background
Ablution was common among ancient peoples, especially in the warm East, where washing frequently accompanied religious rites. The supplied material does not provide further details about baptism’s mode or subjects.