This document discusses the controversy surrounding baptism and its meaning. It notes that baptism has been a controversial act since early Christianity due to it being a public statement of faith. While baptism is an important step in discipleship, it does not alone make one a disciple as true discipleship requires giving up oneself to one's teacher. The document argues that Jesus reserved baptism as a privilege for his disciples, so that whenever one baptizes today they do so as a representative of Jesus Christ.