Baptism

March 23

Daily Bible Reading: Luke 3

Verse of the Day: Luke 3:7 – “He said therefore to the multitudes that went out to be baptized of him, Ye offspring of vipers, who warned you to flee from the wrath to come?”

Βαπτισθηναι. Baptizo, the Greek word that we transliterate as baptize creates a lot of discussion in Christian circles. Consider some thoughts from the Greek word itself.

The Greek word was not a religious word to begin with. It was used in everyday language. It meant to immerse, or submerge (of vessels sunk); it also meant to cleanse by dipping or submerging, to wash, to make clean with water, to wash one's self, to bathe. 

The Jews were used to Gentiles being baptized into Judaism, but John’s baptism was new to them. It symbolized renouncing their old life and preparing their hearts to receive the coming Messiah. Later, we see that baptism showed that a person had repented and accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior.

Prayer: May I be totally immersed in my relationship with Jesus today and forever.