Reconciling Matthew 28:19 and 1 Corinthians 1:17: Hermeneutics in the Context of Discipleship and Baptism
How do we reconcile Matthew 28:19 and 1 Corinthians 1:17? The question invites a fascinating exploration of Christian theology and the teachings of Christ and his apostles.
Missionary Mandate in Matthew 28:19
Matthew 28:19
"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…" (NIV)
This passage is often cited as the 'missionary mandate' or the 'Great Commission.' It emphasizes the responsibility of spreading the gospel and making disciples who are then baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The command to make disciples is clear, and the method of baptism is integral to the process.
Paul's Perspective on Baptism in 1 Corinthians 1:17
1 Corinthians 1:17
"For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with words of eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power."
Paul, an apostle, put his own perspective on the mission. He emphasizes preaching the gospel, which would naturally lead to baptism, but he did not focus on baptism itself as his main activity. He believed that the essence of the mission was to spread the message of Jesus Christ, and that the baptism was a natural outcome of this message, not the primary goal.
Interpreting the Passages Hermeneutically
The two passages, while related, present a helpful contrast in understanding the core mission. Let's delve deeper into how these should be reconciled.
Context of Discipleship and Baptism
The Gospel of Matthew emphasizes that the purpose of discipleship is to lead people to baptism. Making disciples is seen as a step towards accepting the baptism in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This suggests an order where discipleship comes first, followed by baptism. Baptism, in this context, is a public declaration of one's faith and commitment to Christ.
On the other hand, 1 Corinthians 1:17 highlights the importance of preaching and the message of the cross. Paul sees his mission as one of spreading the gospel, not performing baptisms. This does not mean baptism is not important, but that the primary focus is on the message itself.
Role of Baptism and Evangelism
Baptism is a physical symbol of faith, but it is not the goal. The goal is discipleship and transformation. Baptism should follow from preaching the gospel, not the other way around. Paul's task was to proclaim the message of salvation, and that leading to baptism was a natural part of this process.
Practical Application
Today, we can see the same principles at work in many Christian churches. Evangelists and preachers work to share the gospel, leading people to decide for themselves to accept Christ and to be baptized. Baptism is not an end in itself but an expression of faith and discipleship.
Conclusion
There is no contradiction here. Both passages together provide a comprehensive view of Christ's missionary mandate. Making disciples and baptizing them are parts of a larger mission that involves preaching and leading people to faith in Christ. Paul’s stance, in line with Christ's, emphasizes the importance of the message over performing baptisms. The goal is conversion and baptism, but the process starts with the message of the cross, which naturally leads to baptism.
As Christians, we can embrace this holistic approach to discipleship and baptism, ensuring that our focus remains on the message and the transformation of hearts rather than the act of baptism itself.