What is…
baptism for the dead mentioned in the Bible

also known as: baptism of the dead

This unbiblical practice is only mentioned once in Scripture.

Otherwise, what will those do who are baptized for the dead? If the dead are not raised at all, why then are they baptized for them? —1 Corinthians 15:29

This expression as used by the apostle may be equivalent to saying, “He who goes through a baptism of blood in order to join a glorified church which has no existence [i.e., if the dead rise not] is a fool.”

Some also regard the statement here as an allusion to the strange practice which began, it is said, to prevail at Corinth, in which a person was baptized in the stead of others who had died before being baptized, to whom it was hoped some of the benefits of that rite would be extended. This they think may have been one of the erroneous customs which Paul went to Corinth to “set in order.”

“The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” (the Mormons) also practice baptism of the dead.

SEE: What does the Bible mean when it refers to the “Baptism of the dead?” Answer

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Article Version: September 28, 2024