Subject: Mark 16:16 what does it say? |
Bible Note: Greetings Raven! You have demonstrated exactly the problem one has in trying to define baptism in such a way that it is not a work. You yourself wrote: "If we go only with Ephesians 2:8 "For by grace you have been saved" then the above scriptures would contradict because they show that works are needed. Not works as doing good deeds but obedient works that submit to the gospel." The problem is that even under your definition, baptism is still a work and is still necessary for salvation. Thus, your definition does contradict Eph. 2:8-9, which specifically rules out any works as being necessary for salvation. What role does 'works' play in our salvation, none in accomplishing our salvation. However, once we are saved, then we will 'work' and be obedient to God's commands - such as baptism. This is exactly what Eph. 2:10 and James 2 are both speaking about. James 2 isn't saying that works save us. James 2 is saying that those who are saved (or who have faith) will 'work'. You see, I don't have any problem with saying: "Once you are saved, you must be baptized", since Jesus commands it. But, I do have a problem with saying: "You must be baptized in order to be saved." This violates Eph. 2:8-9, Romans 4-5, and Galations - all of which make it clear that 'works' cannot save us, nor do they help us along in salvation. Salvation is entirely a work of Grace in response to faith. Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |