From Swedenborg's Works

 

True Christian Religion #668

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668. That Baptism was commanded is clearly evident from John's baptizing in the Jordan, to which all Judea and Jerusalem went out, Matthew 3:5-6; Mark 1:4-5. Also, the Lord our Savior was Himself baptized by John, Matthew 3:13-17; and moreover, He commanded His disciples to baptize all nations, Matthew 28:19. Any one may see, if he is willing to see, that in this institution there is something Divine, which has hitherto remained concealed, because so far the spiritual sense has not been made known. This has been revealed at this day, because the Christian Church, as it is in itself, is now just beginning. The former Church was Christian in name only, but not in reality and essence.

  
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Thanks to the Swedenborg Society for the permission to use this translation.

The Bible

 

Mark 1:4-5

Study

  

4 John came baptizing in the wilderness and preaching the baptism of repentance for forgiveness of sins.

5 All the country of Judea and all those of Jerusalem went out to him. They were baptized by him in the Jordan river, confessing their sins.