The Highway Forums General Discussion Open Forum The Didache

I would not look to the Didache or indeed any of the Church Fathers for help with Bible doctrines. They don't agree with each other, and, more importantly, they don't agree with the Bible.

The Didache is interesting, however, when it reveals how First Century Greek-speaking Christians understood the word 'baptizo.'
Notice here that you can baptize in running water; you can baptize in cold water or warm water, but you cannot baptize by pouring, because that would be a non sequitur. Baptizo means 'dipping' or 'immersion.' It doesn't mean 'pouring' or 'sprinkling.' Pouring is allowed by the Didache, but it doesn't call it 'baptism.'

Steve

Didache 7:1
But concerning baptism, thus shall ye baptize. Having first recited all these things, baptize in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit in living (running) water.

Didache 7:2
But if thou hast not living water, then baptize in other water; and if thou art not able in cold, then in warm.

Didache 7:3
But if thou hast neither, then pour water on the head thrice in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

Didache 7:4
But before the baptism let him that baptizeth and him that is baptized fast, and any others also who are able; and thou shalt order him that is baptized to fast a day or two before.