I read somewhere that the answer to the question "Who's a candidate for baptism?" is "a disciple." This is confusing. If a disciple (a Christian) is already saved why does he or she need to be saved again by baptism? Please help. -- Teresa

The answer you refer to is misleading, almost a verbal sleight of hand. The word disciple is being used in two senses. In the New Testament (in Acts), it is synonymous with "Christian " although the emphasis is different. (Disciple emphasizes teachability and training, while Christian emphasizes the one we are following, Christ. We are not disciples of any person except Jesus.)

The other sense of disciple is simply "student." People can be students (learners) of many things without necessarily being Christians. Outside of Christianity this is the normal sense of the word. (Disciples of Moses, disciples of Plato, disciples of Sai Baba.) And so the process of discipleship begins before baptism.

Yes, before baptism we need to have the disciple's attitude. We are, in one sense, disciples. After baptism, now forgiven of our sins, we are Christians--who are also (understandably) called disciples.

I hope this helps.

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