Is baptism the new covenant equivalent of circumcision?
Baptism, a practice used by John the Baptist, has its roots in Jewish tradition, not Christian innovation. In fact, Jews practiced baptism (or mikvah) as an act of purification or completion long before the coming of the Messiah. The origins of baptism can be found in Leviticus, where Levite priests underwent symbolic cleansing in water before and after performing their duties.
John’s “baptism of repentance” followed this paradigm of cleansing, preparing the way for Jesus’ ministry (Luke 3:3; Acts 19:4). In the New Testament, baptism signifies believers being baptized into Jesus’ death and raised to walk in newness of life (Romans 6:3-4).
However, some Reformed traditions draw parallels between circumcision and baptism, using Old Testament teachings to justify infant baptism. But do these practices symbolize the same covenant?
It’s essential to remember that neither circumcision nor baptism saves a person. Faith in Jesus Christ alone is the means of salvation (Acts 16:31; Ephesians 2:8-9). Circumcision was a physical sign of the Old Covenant, while baptism is a symbolic act representing spiritual cleansing and new life in Christ.
In the Old Covenant, physical circumcision was required for entrance (Genesis 17:10-13). Yet, Moses and Jeremiah emphasized the need for heart circumcision (Deuteronomy 10:16; Jeremiah 4:4). In contrast, the New Covenant requires belief and salvation (Acts 16:31).
True circumcision, as Paul preaches, is that of the heart, accomplished by the Spirit (Romans 2:29). Colossians 2:11-12 refers to spiritual circumcision, involving a cutting away of our old nature, effected by the Holy Spirit. Baptism, mentioned in verse 12, follows this spiritual circumcision, representing inward, spiritual “circumcision.”
Faith plays a crucial role in baptism, as it signifies a believer’s entrance into the New Covenant. Infants, lacking the ability to exercise faith, should not be candidates for baptism. Instead, baptism should follow a conscious decision to follow Jesus Christ.
In conclusion, while baptism shares some parallels with circumcision, it represents a distinct covenant and spiritual reality. Neither circumcision nor baptism saves a person; faith in Jesus Christ alone is the means of salvation. Baptism signifies a believer’s entrance into the New Covenant, made possible through faith in Jesus Christ. As we consider our own baptism experience, may we remember the significance of this sacred act and its connection to our spiritual journey.
https://www.gotquestions.org/baptism-circumcision.html
https://www.gotquestions.org/origin-baptism.html
https://apologeticspress.org/apcontent.aspx?category=11&article=1235
