Faith & Reason Nexus

The changes in the doctrine of baptism over time have been a topic of discussion and debate among Christians. Here’s a summary of the changes outlined:

1. Original Practice of Immersion: Baptism in the early Christian church was primarily administered through immersion, following the example of John the Baptist and the authority of Jesus (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:16).
2. Unscriptural Changes:

• Pouring (Affusion): The historical occurrence of pouring as a form of baptism is traced back to A.D. 251 with the baptism of Novatian.
• Sprinkling: Sprinkling as a form of baptism was authorized by the Roman Catholic Church in A.D. 1131 and legalized by the Council of Ravenna in A.D. 1311.

1. Original and Biblical Requirements for Water Baptism:

• Use of Water: Baptism required the use of water (Acts 8:36).
• Much Water: It was preferable to have much water available for baptism (John 3:23).
• Going to the Water: Both the baptizer and the one being baptized went to the water (Acts 8:36).
• Going Down into the Water: Baptism involved going down into the water (Acts 8:38).
• Burial and Resurrection Symbolism: Baptism symbolized burial and resurrection with Christ (Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:12).
• Washing of the Body: Baptism represented the washing away of sins (Hebrews 10:22).
• Coming Up out of the Water: Baptism included coming up out of the water (Acts 8:39; Matthew 3:16).

The question of whether one has been baptized scripturally or unscripturally depends on adherence to these original and biblical requirements. Some may argue for the importance of following the biblical model of immersion baptism, while others may view alternative forms of baptism as acceptable. Ultimately, individual beliefs and interpretations may vary within different Christian traditions.