Dictionary of Bible Themes In the Gospels baptising is based on the symbolic practice in the OT and Judaism of cleansing with water. Exodus 30:19-20Washing was the means of achieving ritual purity Mark 7:3-4The Greek word here translated "wash" is "baptizo", from which the English "baptise" comes. Ezekiel 36:25Sprinkling with water symbolises spiritual cleansing See also Zechariah 13:1Hebrews 10:22 Matthew 3:11 Being baptised by John was a confession that cleansing was needed See also Matthew 3:6Mark 1:4-5 Acts 19:1-4 pp Lk 3:3 Matthew 3:11John promised that the Messiah would cleanse with the baptism of the Holy Spirit See also pp Mk 1:8 Isaiah 44:3pp Lk 3:16 Ezekiel 36:25-26John 3:5 Baptism involves both water and the Holy Spirit See also The disciples of Jesus Christ baptised like John's John 3:22-23; 4:1Matthew 3:13-17 Jesus Christ was baptised by John pp Mk 1:9-11 See also pp Lk 3:21-22 pp Jn 1:32-33 2375 kingdom of God2515 Christ, birth of 3245 Holy Spirit, blasphemy against 5099 Mary, mother of Christ 7418 Purim 8324 purity |
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