Baptism -- A Definition

As I was thinking about our discussion of baptism (in the comments of an earlier post), I suddenly thought of an agreement made in 1982 by the Faith and Order Commission (WCC). This document sets up agreed upon understandings of Baptism, Eucharist, and Ministry -- thus the BEM Document.

Here then is a statement of definition:

Christian baptism is rooted in the ministry of Jesus of Nazareth, in his death and in his resurrection. It is the incorporation into Christ, who is the crucified and risen Lord; it is entry into the New Covenant between God and God's people. Baptism is a gift of God, and is administered in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. St. Matthew records that the risen Lord, when sending his disciples into the world, commanded them to baptize (Matt. 28:18-20). The universal practice of baptism by the apostolic Church from its earliest days is attested in letters of the New Testament, the Acts of the Apostles, and the writings of the Fathers. The churches today continue this practice as a rite of commitment to the Lord who bestows his grace upon his people. (BEM Document, 1982, p. 7).

I think this is a useful starting point for a discussion -- in part because it represents the input from across the traditions of the Christian faith. I'll post more later on mode and timing.