Prior Book | Prior Chapter | Prior Verse | Next Verse | Next Chapter | Next Book | Viewing NASB and Amplified 2015 | |
NASB | John 3:5 Jesus answered, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | John 3:5 Jesus answered, "I assure you and most solemnly say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot [ever] enter the kingdom of God. [Ezek 36:25-27] |
Subject: Is baptism required for salvation? |
Bible Note: I was trying to make a point that NOT being baptized will not keep you from heaven. Another point I must make is that baptism doesn't guarantee that one is saved. Some have been baptized who are not yet saved, they did it for show, to please men rather than God, and they have not had a true conversion of the heart. It is ultimately down to an issue of the heart. "Man looks on the outward appearence but God sees the heart." "Confess Me before men and I will confess you before my Father in heaven"- Jesus said Confessing Christ before others is really what is at stake here. Yes, baptism is an essential part of your being born again. Don't anyone misunderstand me. Yes, I have been baptized. Three times in fact. I have been trice dipped and for three different occasions all as an outward sign of an internal conversion, or as a rededication of my life to Christ. Don't, by any many means, neglect being baptized if you are a born again believer. But if you know of one who has not yet been baptized, and they are a true believer in Christ, and for some odd reason they died before they had the chance to be baptized, they have not been disqualified for that reason. If they had a genuine faith they will see the kingdom of God. Now, if you are a true believer by all means get baptized, by submersion and not just a sprinkle...lol. Confess Jesus Christ openly to others, by this act. I got a few more things to say before I end this. St. Francis of Assisi said, "Preach Christ and if you have to, use words." I add to that in my words, NOTHING SPEAKS LOUDER THAN A CHANGED LIFE! Live your faith out in practical everyday living and don't forget to smile, laugh and touch others lovingly. It can make a world of difference in their lives and in yours. Be Jesus to them. To some, their only exposure to Christianity is you. Be loving, gentle and kind but never compromise on your convictions, stand up for truth and what is right. This will not make you popular but it will make you known for integrity, which is something lacking in this day and age. It's not "What Would Jesus Do", it's "what would Jesus have me" do that counts. In His service. Love and hugs.-Joshua Olinger |