Introduction
The Anabaptist movement, emerging in the early 1500s as part of the Radical Reformation, places significant emphasis on the practice of water baptism. Central to Anabaptist theology is the belief that baptism should be reserved for those who consciously profess their faith in Jesus Christ, commonly referred to as “believer’s baptism.”
Historical Context of Anabaptist Baptism
The Anabaptist movement originated in the early 1500s, challenging both Catholic and Protestant norms at the time by advocating for believer’s baptism. This was a radical departure from the infant baptism which was widely practiced by both traditions at the time.
Theology of Baptism in Anabaptism
Anabaptists firmly believe in “believer’s baptism,” meaning only those who have made a personal profession of faith should be baptized. This conviction is grounded in scriptures such as Acts 2:38, which states, “And Peter said to them, ‘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.'” This verse underscores that repentance and consent, which are impossible for infants and are required for baptism. Additionally, the symbolism of baptism as a declaration of faith and a new life in Christ is highlighted in Romans 6:4: “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.”
Baptism as a Public Profession of Faith
For Anabaptists, baptism is a public declaration of one’s faith and commitment to follow Jesus. It is not merely a personal or private matter but involves the community of believers. Matthew 28:19-20 emphasizes this communal aspect: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”
Mode and Practice of Baptism
The preferred mode of baptism in Anabaptist communities is full immersion, symbolizing the believer’s complete identification with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. This practice finds its scriptural support in passages such as Mark 1:9-10, where Jesus himself was baptized by immersion: “In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And when he came up out of the water, immediately he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove.” This is further supported by the root meaning of the word “baptism,” which is to immerse.
Ethical and Discipleship Implications of Baptism
Baptism is seen as a covenant of discipleship, marking the believer’s entry into a life of following Jesus. This commitment involves ethical living and active participation in the community of faith. Colossians 2:12 reflects this transformative aspect: “having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the powerful working of God, who raised him from the dead.”
Baptism and Church Membership
Anabaptist tradition integrates baptized believers into full church membership, emphasizing mutual accountability and support within the community. Acts 2:41-42 illustrates this early church practice: “So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls. And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.”
Contemporary Anabaptist Views on Baptism
While the core principles of believer’s baptism remain unchanged, contemporary Anabaptists engage in ongoing dialogue with other Christian denominations. The emphasis remains on maintaining the scriptural integrity and communal significance of baptism as seen in 1 Corinthians 12:13: “For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.” Therefore, we do not require anyone to be rebaptized if they have already submitted to God through the waters of baptism by their own free will at an appropriate age.
Personal Stories and Testimonies
Personal stories of baptism in Anabaptist communities often reflect profound spiritual transformation and commitment. These testimonies echo the joy and significance of baptism as described in Acts 8:38-39, where the Ethiopian eunuch’s baptism is a moment of great joy: “And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptized him. And when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord carried Philip away, and the eunuch saw him no more, and went on his way rejoicing.”
The Contemporary Anabaptist Church here in Brisbane
All baptisms are performed (when possible)
- Are performed by full immersion
- Are reserved for believers who have committed their lives to follow in the footsteps of Christ.
- Are baptised in the name of the Father, The Son, and the Holy Spirit as commanded in Mat 28 – Great commission.
- Are performed outdoors in God’s creation.
- Are performed publically for the world to hear.
- Are celebrated communally, usually a church picnic together in his name.
Conclusion
In summary, water baptism from an Anabaptist perspective is a deeply significant act of faith, marking a believer’s commitment to follow Jesus and become part of the Christian community. Rooted in scripture and historical tradition, it remains a powerful symbol of new life and discipleship and should be seen as a necessary part of one’s Christian life and obedience to the Lord as He has commanded us to do.
