Baptism by immersion is a method of baptism in which the individual is fully submerged in water, symbolizing the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This form of baptism is seen as an outward sign of an inner spiritual transformation. Baptism by immersion is practiced by many Christian denominations, particularly those that emphasize the symbolic significance of immersion in water.

Key Concepts in Baptism by Immersion:

1. Symbolism of Death and Resurrection:
   Immersion represents the believer’s identification with Christ’s death and resurrection. As the person is submerged in water, it symbolizes the burial of the old self, and when they rise out of the water, it symbolizes the new life they have (Romans 6:4).
2. Full Submersion in Water:
   Baptism by immersion involves completely submerging the individual in water. This is contrasted with other methods like sprinkling or pouring water, and it is considered by many to be the most biblically faithful method of baptism.
3. Public Declaration of Faith:
   Baptism by immersion serves as a public declaration of faith. It is a way of publicly identifying with the Christian community.
4. Cleansing and Renewal:
   Baptism by immersion symbolizes spiritual cleansing and renewal.
5. Obedience to Christ’s Command:
   Baptism is an act of obedience to the command given by Jesus Christ in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19). Baptism by immersion is seen as a way of fulfilling this command and following Jesus’ example.

Historical Background:

1. Biblical Foundation:
   Baptism by immersion is grounded in the practices described in the New Testament. Jesus Himself was baptized by immersion in the Jordan River (Matthew 3:16). Early Christians also practiced baptism by immersion as part of their initiation into the faith.
2. Early Church Practices:
   In the early Christian church, baptism by immersion was the predominant method. The Didache, an early Christian text, references baptism by immersion as the preferred form of baptism for new believers.
3. Development of Alternative Methods:
   Over time, as the church grew and became more institutionalized, other methods of baptism, such as sprinkling or pouring, were introduced, particularly in situations where full immersion was not practical (e.g., in cold climates or for individuals who were ill). However, immersion remains the traditional practice for many denominations.

Baptism by Immersion in Practice:

1. Baptismal Services:
   In many Christian communities that practice baptism by immersion, the baptism takes place in a large body of water, such as a river, a baptistry, or a pool designed for this purpose.
2. Public Witness:
   Baptism by immersion is usually a public event, where the individual’s faith is shared with the congregation.
3. Spiritual Renewal and Commitment:
   For those being baptized, immersion is a powerful symbol of their personal transformation. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in their spiritual journey, representing their commitment to live according to the teachings of Christ.
4. Ongoing Discipleship:
   Baptism by immersion is often followed by continued discipleship, where the newly baptized believer is mentored and taught how to grow in their faith. This discipleship ensures that the symbolism of baptism is carried out in the believer’s daily life.

Written by AI. A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.