Overview
Baptism is a vital activity that is done in obedience to Christ’s command. Different Christian churches believe in what baptism is differently. I will argue for what I believe Scripture clearly teaches about baptism.
Baptismal Regeneration
Some churches, such as Roman Catholic, Lutheran, Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, as well as certain Anglicans, believe in what is called baptismal regeneration. This is the belief that when a person is baptized, using the formula “In the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit I baptize you,” they are saved at that moment, and they are now regenerated.
This doctrine has several problems. First, it may be a source of comfort, but it is not how baptism is proscribed in Scripture.
Proponents of baptismal regeneration believe that if the formula of baptism is used, that person will absolutely surely be regenerated. This betrays a misunderstanding of how baptism works. Baptism is an outward sign of an inward belief. It does not confer salvation. Whether you baptize a baby, an atheist, or a Muslim, one cannot force the Holy Spirit to regenerate them. And none of these people will be regenerated by virtue of their water baptism.
There is an inherent misunderstanding in the mechanics of salvation. Baptism is a work of man. Scripture is clear that faith comes by hearing, and that the way to be saved is to be born again. This happens through sincere repentance, after hearing the gospel, and believing the gospel, which is clear that the object of our faith is in Christ alone.
Infant Baptism
True baptism is for people who have at least reached the age where they can understand the gospel and sincerely repent and trust in Christ alone. I was regenerated at age 7. Infants can’t do this. There is not a single unambiguous, straightforward example of infant baptism in all of Scripture.
The entrance to the Old Covenant was circumcision of an infant. This was a work of man. The entrance to the New Covenant is spiritual circumcision of the heart. It is the work of the Holy Spirit.
Sadly, even Reformed believers have fallen into error by affirming infant baptism. Presbyterians are guilty of this. They say they have “covenant children”, but the infant is not able to enter any covenant.
Conclusion
Baptism is a wonderful thing. It’s done according to Christ’s command. All believers should have credobaptism. But Scripture does not teach baptismal regeneration or regular infant baptism.
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