I too think we need to be careful not to read too much into this statement. The simple sense of that verse would be that Jesus went down into the water, hence came up from it, as opposed to conjecturing what he "may have" done.
As to history:
Perhaps you've read myriad regurgitations of the 1955 Time Magazine account of a baptism around 100 A.D. of Publius Decius. A web page on
History of Baptism recites it, and a few years ago it was discussed on FCF (I'm quite sure it was before NFCF).
Quote:
|
"The deacon raised his hand, and Publius Decius stepped through the baptistry door. Standing waist-deep in the pool was Marcus Vasca the woodseller. He was smiling as Publius waded into the pool beside him. ‘Credis?’ he asked. ‘Credo,’ responded Publius. ‘I believe that my salvation comes from Jesus the Christ, Who was crucified under Pontius Pilate. With Him I died that with Him I may have Eternal Life.’ Then he felt strong arms supporting him as he let himself fall backward into the pool, and heard Marcus’ voice in his ear ---- ‘I baptize you in the Name of the Lord Jesus’ ---- as the cold water closed over him."
|
Since all websites quote each other, repetition does not necessarily substantiate.
But, fortunately I found and purchased a December 5, 1955 issue of Time Magazine off Ebay. This was part of an article on Protestant Revivalism.
Threaded Mode
