Gereinigd, klaar voor Gods komst: de doop in Lucas-Handelingen

Abstract

This article provides an overview of the motif of baptism in Luke-Acts. It argues that Luke presents the baptism of John as a particular kind of Jewish purification rite, that is, as a purification that accompanies a changed way of life and that prepares the people of Israel for the coming of the Lord. In Acts, Luke emphasizes the continuity between the baptism of John and baptism in the name of Jesus. Both are baptisms of repentance and both prepare for the eschatological coming of the Lord. At the same time, differences can be seen between both baptisms: after Easter, according to Acts 18-19, the baptism of John is no longer sufficient. The conclusion links the findings to current debates on baptism in reformed churches. The practice of infant baptism has its value, but risks losing the biblical emphasis on the new way of life expected of the baptized.