Scripture-first response
“Paul said Christ did not send him to baptize.”
Paul’s point is that his primary commission was preaching and that believers must not form factions around the minister who baptized them. The same chapter confirms he did baptize.
What the objection is claiming
Paul’s division of labor is read as a theological rejection of baptism.
1 Corinthians 1:17
For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.Open full referencePaul distinguishes his primary preaching commission from personally performing baptisms; he does not dismiss baptism itself.
How the passages answer it
Paul contrasts his task of preaching with personally administering every baptism, much as another worker might perform the act. His rhetorical questions assume baptism into the name of the crucified Christ, and his letters teach baptism’s union with Christ.