Bible Question:
Thank you for your input, but I believe you are in error concerning baptism. The scripture reference you gave "unless one is born of water"..., is that John 3:5? If so, then the context in which it is given is clearly referring to being born of water as being born a natural birth (when the water breaks). Look at the very next verse: "Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit." Also, if we are to believe Eph 2:8,9, then there is absolutely nothing we can do to determine our salvation that is a "work". And getting baptised, although one of only two ordinances of the church and certainly important, does not in any way have any saving power. If it did, and a person had to do it in order to be saved, then it would become a "work" (something you have to "do"). Salvation is a "gift". If you add any conditions to it, it is no longer a gift. You cited: Rom 6:1-6 - Are you familiar with 1 Cor 10:2? "They were all baptised into Moses...". The Romans passage you cited is similar to this one in that it is "figuratively" speaking. Acts 2:38 - Peter is telling these Jews to get saved. He is telling them if they get saved they will be indwelt by the Holy Spirit. (vs. 41 says "Those who accepted his message were baptised...". Now, which came first, the "acceptance" of the message or the baptism? To "accept" the message is to "believe". John 5:24 that says "I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life". In this verse there is no mention of having to be baptised. I know you probably belong to a denomination that teaches what you have said, and I'm sure you are fairly convinced that what you believe is true. But please consider what I have said, and then ask the Lord to confirm or reject what I have said. |
Bible Answer: 4givn: I think there is a better way to state what point you have made. First let me say it is true that baptism is an act of obedience. I would also say anyone who does not want to be obedient has a flawed understanding of the Lordship of Jesus Christ. If anyone does not want to be baptized, after being made aware of baptisms importance in confessing Jesus Christ is now their Lord, then we have every reason to assume they really do not know Christ as Lord. Does this make for a clearer understanding? As you may be aware or not, this subject comes up rather frequently on the Forum. I have never seem either side of this debate convert anyone to change the mind of the person they are dialoguing with. What I presented you with has helped me to bridge the gap on occasion. Any thoughts? Blessings. justme |