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This question on baptism came from Africa: Can anyone perform a baptism? At Dynamic Church Planting International (DCPI), we get questions from many nations where we train church planters. This is now over 100 countries.
A DCPI leader in Kenya wrote this about baptism and serving communion, “In most denominations it is the role of an ordained pastor or elder to administer these sacraments and it might seem DCPI is requiring the new church to do a role that can only be done by clergy who qualify. In many cases the pastor of a new church may not be authorized to conduct such even though they will be done but by leaders sent from their headquarters periodically.”
This question got us studying the question again.
Listen to this podcast to hear my answer. (Just hit the play button above to listen.)
What does Scripture say about baptism and who can do it? Here are some of the key passages I reference in this podcast:
“And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.’” (Matthew 28:18-20 ESV)
“And you are living stones that God is building into his spiritual temple. What’s more, you are his holy priests. Through the mediation of Jesus Christ, you offer spiritual sacrifices that please God.” (1 Peter 2:5 NLT)
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” (1 Peter 2:9 NIV)
“And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.’” (Matthew 3:16-17 ESV)
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