As we survey the New Testament texts on baptism, we’ll turn our attention to the letters. To start off, let’s focus just on the passages that specifically mention baptism:

Rom 6:3–4; 1 Cor 1:13–17; 10:2; 12:13; 15:29; Gal 3:27; Eph 4:5; Col 2:12; Heb 6:2; 1 Pet 3:21

The first passage is Romans 6, where Paul uses the example of baptism as part of his teaching on the importance of repentance and sanctification. It’s important to note that baptism is not the point of this passage, yet important things are taught about baptism.

In the first chapter of 1 Corinthians, we find a passage that is puzzling to some, where Paul talks about having been sent to preach not to baptize. I think people who haven’t been in missions settings are especially puzzled by this; those who have realize the complications of having the visiting celebrity actually doing the baptisms and the importance of using local people for this act to enhance the connection with the local church. (I wrote more fully on this a while back)

Chapter 10 of 1 Corinthians has a symbolic use of the word baptize, where Paul talks about the Israelites being baptized “into Moses” when they entered the cloud and the sea. Chapter 12 of the same book says that we were all baptized by the Spirit into the body of believers.

The fourth reference in 1 Corinthians makes the head-scratching comment about baptism for the dead. Lots of theories out there about that one.

Galatians 3:27 talks about Christians being clothed in Christ in baptism.

Ephesians 4 tells us that there is only one baptism; it’s surprising how often this unity-inspired comment has led to disagreement and division.

Colossians 2:12 speaks of baptism as a burial and a raising, the same language Paul used in Romans 6. It also emphasizes the role of faith in Christian baptism.

Hebrews 6 speaks of teachings about “baptisms” as being part of the elementary teachings of the church.

1 Peter 3:21 compares the Christian’s experience in baptism with that of Noah and his family on the ark. And I don’t think Peter had even seen the movie!

Next I want to look at some of the passages that may be referencing baptism even though the word isn’t used. Did I miss any direct references?