Baptismal Ecclesiology

Abstract This article discusses baptism as expressing the four‐fold relationality of life based on God, creation, neighbour, and self, as found in the second narrative of creation in the book of Genesis. Based on this understanding of baptism, baptismal ecclesiology can be defined as an understanding of the church that is primarily grounded in the sacrament of baptism. Baptismal ecclesiology sheds light on the level of mutual recognition of baptism throughout Christianity. Since baptism is about administering a sacrament, baptismal ecclesiology involves consequences for understanding ministry and ideally would be a liberating equalizer both within the churches and between them. A baptismal ecclesiology urges churches to understand themselves as movements rather than service institutions, aiming at fostering a sense of accountability in all the baptized – discipleship. As a result, baptismal ecclesiology is a fruitful theme for ecumenical dialogue and for common witness to the mercy of God in proclamation and service to a world that is yearning for justice, peace, reconciliation, and a hope that liberates to act.