Open questionThat it matters is settled; how and when is honestly disputed

What is baptism?

That baptism matters is not in dispute — Jesus commanded it, and the church has always obeyed. It is the public sign of belonging to Christ. But faithful Christians have honestly disagreed for centuries about how and when: believers on profession of faith, or the children of believers too. Here are both cases at their strongest. This is your first look at a question where good Christians differ — notice that it can be studied without fear.