A biblical-theological critique of Martin Luther’s view on rebaptism

Abstract

This study offers a biblical-theological critique of Martin Luther’s position on rebaptism, with particular attention to his rejection of the practice in cases involving individuals baptized as infants, as believers, or after falling into apostasy. Through a careful examination of key biblical texts—especially Acts 19—it is argued that rebaptism should not be construed as a repudiation of the initial baptism, but rather as an expression of spiritual renewal, genuine repentance, and an enriched understanding of divine truth. The findings suggest that, although Luther’s emphasis on the singular nature of baptism rightly underscores its sacramental significance, his dismissal of rebaptism fails to account for the transformative power of faith and the ongoing process of repentance. The biblical and theological insights emerging from this study affirm that rebaptism can be a personal and meaningful act of recommitment to God. Ultimately, the study concludes that rebaptism is both biblically and theologically defensible, serving as a public declaration of renewed faith and deeper spiritual conviction.