BAPTISM OF THE MIND

Baptism is to be immersed in some agent. The scriptures mention these: water, Spirit and fire as well as others. There are seven baptisms recorded in the Bible.

I have recently had the idea that in my life and history that I have needed a Baptism of the Mind… once and continually. It may go by other terms but I think immersion is the best principle for understanding.

Paul, an apostle, wrote in Romans 12:2: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Or, another translation: “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.” (NLT)

The reason, says Paul, for ‘the new mind’ is that we might “learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect” (Romans 12:2). This is an on-going, on-growing formation in the believer. It is an exercise in our minds and consciences being immersed and made new by the Holy Spirit.

Peter, another apostle, also encourages us: “Therefore guard your minds, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:13). We are to guard what is being immersed and changed.

“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect” (NLT). God’s will by a Spirit immersed mind.

“Can you drink the cup that I must drink? And can you be baptized with the same kind of baptism that I must go through?” Jesus