[The word “baptism” often is almost always associated with water these days. But that’s not Biblical. The word “baptism” means “to fully submerse.” Imagine a bucket of water, and then thrusting a dry sponge to the bottom of the bucket. Which part of the sponge remains dry? NONE OF IT! The sponge was fully submersed into the water; the sponge was baptized. But you can be “fully submersed” in more things than just water. Let’s see what Dr. Paino wrote in his book.]
We read that there are several baptisms mentioned in the Scripture. However, there are three that are critically important in our relationship with the Lord:
1) The baptism into the “Body of Christ.” There is the work and ministry of the holy Spirit to baptize us into the Jesus Christ. The “Body of Christ” has many members but there is only one body. It is the Holy Spirit that makes believers members of this wonderful body. It is the Holy Spirit that places every believer into the “Body of Christ.”
2) The baptism in water. The Great Commission given by our Lord was that the gospel should be preached and that believers must be “baptized in the Name of the Father, and the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19).
The early church followed the instruction and laid down the pattern. Water baptism is not an option! It is a command! (Acts 2:21).
Water baptism is an expression of faith. It is an act of obedience. It is a witness of a work of grace that is done in the heart of a believer; and it is identifying with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. We are buried with Christ and are raised to walk in the newness of life. Baptism in water is a deeply spiritual and moving experience for the believer.
3) The baptism in the Holy Spirit. Jesus sopke concerning this baptism. John was called upon to baptize Jesus in the waters of the Jordan but it is Jesus who baptizes believers into the HOly Spirit. This wonderful baptism is a glorious experience that is provided for everyone who has received the Holy Spirit into the hearts and know that they are a new creature in Christ (Matthew 3:11, Acts 2:1-4).
See also Acts 8:13-19, Acts 10:44-48, and Acts 19:1-7. The entire 8th chapter of Romans is an exposition of the Holy Spirit in REGENERATION. The BAPTISM OF THE HOLY SPIRITis not mentioned in this chapter. The be REGENERATED is to receive life. The purpose of the Holy Spirit in the work of being “born again” is to assure every believer of this life. REGENERATION IS FOR THE PURPOSE OF LIFE!
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