Subject: Raven and John Reformed, Baptism? |
Bible Note: Hank, As indicated in the cited passage John 3:5, Mark 16:16 the Lord assures us of the necessity of baptism. Catholics are not the only ones who hold to baptismal regeneration. There are many Protestants who hold to the same using the same passages. On the other hand we know that God is not bound by his commands to us and the means he gives us to obtain his grace. He himself can do what he wants when he wants as demonstrated by the thief on the cross. "We have rules he has rights" to twist the Outback Steakhouse commerical. You might say baptism is necesarry for us but not necessary for God. Catholics consider the sacraments encounters with Christ and therefore moments of grace. But we can encounter him outside the sacraments also. In fact sometimes he jerks us up when and where we least expect it. But he also lets us know where to find him when we are looking for him and not running or hiding. Would Jesus have commanded us to do something that was pointless and unnecessary and without effect? That doesn't sound like Jesus. Just a few passages to consider: John 3:5, 22 born of water and the Spirit, the apostles start baptizing. Titus 3:5 saved us through bath of rebirth and renewal of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2;37-38 repent be baptized and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 22:16 get up and be baptized and sins washed away. 1Cor 6:11 your were washed, sanctified and justified. Romans 6:4 baptized into death; live in newness of life. 1 Peter 3:21 baptism...now save you. Hebrews 10:22 heart spinkled, bodies washed in pure water. Emmaus |