The Baptism of John (Acts 19:4)

2023-05-25

Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. (Acts 19:4)

This baptism was a baptism of repentance, or a change of mind, in preparation of the coming of Jesus.

The baptism of John came before the ministry of Jesus. Judas’ replacement Matthias was required to be witnesses of everything beginning with John’s baptism through to the resurrection. “Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection” (Acts 1:21-22).

This baptism also was with water only. “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire” (Matthew 3:11). Jesus’ baptism is something that He does for us, and it is with His Spirit. Nevertheless, John’s baptism was authorized and commanded by God, for Jesus implied it, “And he answered and said unto them, I will also ask you one thing; and answer me: The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men?” (Luke 20:3-4).

This does not mean that as Christians we no longer water-baptize, for we read of John’s disciples, “they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Acts 19:5).

John’s baptism was a forerunner and picture of something greater to come. Jesus Christ’s baptism is the baptism that saves.