Let it be distinctly understood, however, that all the eminent names and learned authorities hereafter cited are Pedobaptists. Baptist authorities are wholly omitted, not because they are less accurate or less valuable, but because we prefer to allow our opponents in this controversy to bear witness for us, rather than to testify in our own behalf.
the meaning of the word
The word baptize is, properly speaking, a Greek word (baptizo), adapted to the English language by a change in its termination. This is the word always used by Christ and His Apostles to express and define the ordinance. What does that word mean as originally used? For it is certain that our Lord, in commanding a rite to be observed by believers of all classes, in all lands, and through all ages, would use a word of positive and definite import, and one whose meaning would admit of no reasonable doubt. What do Greek scholars say? How do the Greek lexicons define the word?
Scapula says: “To dip, to immerse, as we do anything for the purpose of dyeing it.”
Schleusner says: “Properly it signifies to dip, to immerse, to immerse in water.”
Parkhurst says: “To dip, immerse, or plunge in water.”
Stevens says: “To merge, or immerse, to submerge, or bury in water.”
Donnegan says: “To immerse repeatedly into liquid, to submerge, to soak thoroughly.”
Robinson says: “To immerse, to sink.”
Liddell and Scott say: “To dip repeatedly.”