Affirms
Baptism of all nations in Trinitarian name; central to Coptic practice
The Coptic Orthodox Church affirms Matthew 28:19 as the biblical foundation for Christian baptism administered in the name of the Holy Trinity. Coptic baptismal practice explicitly follows this apostolic formula, invoking the names of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Baptism in Coptic theology is the sacrament of entry into the church and incorporation into Christ's body. The passage establishes both the universality of Christian salvation (all nations) and the Trinitarian invocation necessary for valid baptism. Coptic baptismal theology understands baptism as a mystery involving grace, chrismation, and the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Key Distinctions
- Baptismal formula:
- required; Father, Son, Holy Spirit
- Baptism mode:
- Baptism recipients:
- all nations; universal
Scripture References
Sources
- Coptic Orthodox Baptismal Practice
- Patristic tradition on baptism
- Coptic Orthodox Church Traditions