What is the proper mode of baptism?

Response

The most straightforward response to this query lies in the definition of the term “baptize.” It originates from a Greek word that means “to immerse in water.” Therefore, baptism through sprinkling or pouring is contradictory. Baptism by sprinkling would imply “immersing someone in water by sprinkling water on them.” Baptism, by its very nature, necessitates immersion in water.

Baptism symbolizes a believer’s connection with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. “Or do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:3-4). The act of immersion in water represents dying and being buried with Christ. Emerging from the water symbolizes Christ’s resurrection. Consequently, immersion baptism is the sole method that portrays being buried and rising with Christ. Sprinkling and pouring baptism practices emerged due to the unscriptural tradition of infant baptism.

Although immersion baptism is the most scriptural way to identify with Christ, it is not a requirement for salvation. Instead, it is an act of obedience, a public declaration of faith in Christ and alignment with Him. Baptism signifies leaving behind our old life and embracing a new existence “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come” , (2 Corinthians 5:17). Immersion baptism is the only method that fully represents this profound transformation.