Bible Dictionary

Baptism

Baptism is a religious rite involving water, commonly performed by dipping, immersion, or pouring.

Quick Reference

Total Entries

653

Entry Position

52 of 653

Letter

B

Meaning

Baptism is a religious rite involving water, commonly performed by dipping, immersion, or pouring.

Key Scriptures

  • Matthew 3:1-17
  • Matthew 28:18-20
  • Mark 1:4-11
  • Acts 2:37-41
  • Acts 8:12-17
  • Acts 8:35-39
  • Acts 10:44-48
  • Romans 6:3-4
  • Galatians 3:27
  • 1 Peter 3:21

Original Language

Greek

βάπτισμα

baptisma

baptism; act of dipping or immersion

Meaning

Baptism is a religious rite involving water. The English word comes from Greek baptisma, associated with washing, dipping, or immersion.

Biblical Usage

John the Baptist preached the baptism of repentance. Jesus was baptised by John in the Jordan.

After His resurrection, Jesus commanded His disciples to baptise those who were made disciples of all nations in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.

The apostles also baptised those who received their preaching. Paul also describes baptism as identifying believers with the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Romans 6:3-4).

Key References

  • Matthew 3:1-17
  • Matthew 28:18-20
  • Acts 2:37-41
  • Acts 8:35-39
  • Romans 6:3-4
  • Galatians 3:27
  • 1 Peter 3:21
  • John the Baptist
  • Repentance
  • Jesus Christ
  • Holy Ghost
  • Resurrection

Study More

Continue your Bible study by exploring related Scriptures, dictionary terms, and connected topics.

Scriptures

  • Matthew 3:1-17
  • Matthew 28:18-20
  • Mark 1:4-11
  • Acts 2:37-41
  • Acts 8:12-17
  • Acts 8:35-39
  • Acts 10:44-48
  • Romans 6:3-4
  • Galatians 3:27
  • 1 Peter 3:21

Related Terms

Study Topics

teachings religious-practices New Testament