Mode of Burial and Baptism by M. F. S.

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Dec 3, 1896

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 22, No. 48.

Mode of Burial and Baptism

By M. F. S.

No. 441. Mode of Burial and Baptism.

It is said that in the days of the apostles the dead were laid away in caves and not buried under the ground; that being buried with Christ in baptism does not necessarily imply immersion; and that the text most frequently quoted by those who believe in immersion, is perverted to suit immersionists' own peculiar views. M. F. S.

Where it was possible the dead were buried in caves and rock-hewn sepulchers; but these were buried in the earth nevertheless, and it is so called in the Bible; and by works upon the Bible. See, for instance, Gen. 23:4-15; 1 Kings 11:15; Jer. 19:11; Matt. 27:7; Mark 14:8; John 12:7; Acts 5:6, 9; 1 Cor. 15:4, etc. Cemeteries were, it seems, a necessity. 2 Kings 23:6; Jer. 26:3; Matt. 27:7. Jesus died, was buried, rose again. 1 Cor. 15:3, 4. These three acts are symbolized by baptism, or immersion. Jesus was buried, covered up completely in the earth. Had not rich friends then come forward he would have been buried in a common grave instead of a rock-hewn tomb; but in either case it would have been a burial, just what the Bible calls each; and it also says, "We are buried with him by baptism." Rom. 6:4. The word "baptize" in its original form means immerse, dip, overwhelm. It is safe to abide by the word. People say many things.