Expert: Edward Bode - 1/18/2009

Question
Hi Edward.

I was wondering what the Old Testament and the New Testament says about baptism? And are there any differences?

Does scripture cite that it is necessary to be baptized to be considered a good Christian? And I am wondering if the Old Testament has anything about Baptism itself, as I am not aware if those in the Jewish faith are required to be baptized?

Also, what is the view on war? I am not aware of exact references, but as far as I am aware, there are contradicting views on war itself - that one should lay down "the sword" and turn the other cheek when it comes to bloodshed and the killing of another man, but that killing another man in self defence or in defence of one's country/state is acceptable, and even praiseworthy. Also, that forcing into submission heretics and pagans to spread the word of God is also a good thing.

Note that I am getting these statements from classic writings, most noteably from those around Constantine the Great's time. I am mostly interested in checking these claims in relation to how close to scripture they were, or if they were exaggerated claims for the sake of the political climate at the time.

Any help that you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

Regards,

Debbie.


Answer
What we refer to as [Christian] baptism does not appear in the Old Testament. However, looking back one can see an image of baptism in Noah's ark and the crossing of the Red Sea.
The New has many references to baptism.  Key passages are Jesus' command to make disciples through baptizing and teaching to observe his commands [Mt 28:18] and the necessity of baptism and faith [Jn 3:3-18].
Concerning war, the Ten Commandments has "You shall not kill" -- expanded by Jesus to praise for peacemakers [Mt 5:9] and to extend to anger [Mt 5:21-22].
Moral theologians have spoken of a right to self defense, steps needed before a just war, no direct attacks on civilians, etc.  
I am not a church historian.  However, I do know that bishops opposed Charlemagne's forcing baptism under penalty of death.    
For more, Debbie, please check The Catechism of The Catholic Church, available online at www.usccb.org/catechism/text/index.htm
For baptism, paragrapshs 1217-1228, 1257-1261, 1276-1277; for war, 2302-2317, 2327-2330.
If you would like more from me, please feel free to write again.
Best wishes.