Bible Question: Was it complete? Did they Have To Be Baptized or not? Could they refuse it since they were already saved? Why was it necessary for them to be baptized if they were already saved? More than that why did Peter command them to be baptized if it had nothing to do with salvation? Was not thier salvation complete? |
Bible Answer: Greetings Grace and Truth. Tim Moran gave you excellent answers and I agree completely with him. I find it interesting that your screen name is Grace and Truth. Much of what you are concerned about smacks of legalism - the law(Truth) without Grace. You contend that one cannot be saved apart from water baptism. This is a "works based" approach which Jesus came to do away with! Why would anyone want to impose the "law" when the gift of salvation has been freely offered by GRACE to those who simple believe? "For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ." John 1:17 The ORDER here is very important; so is the order of BELIEVE and be BAPTIZED. I know many people who are "completely saved" by their faith in Jesus Christ who have yet to enter the waters of baptism for one reason or another. I KNOW that I will see them in heaven whether or not they have been immersed before their physical death or the Rapture of the church. Maybe God will let them wear a sign saying "unbaptized believers" so you will recognize them too!Truly I empathize with your passion for what you believe, but please don't impose your rules upon those who do not subscribe to this "doctrine!" I'm glad that God is the Judge! I'll continue to place my confidence in HIS GRACE and TRUTH, not the brand that you are peddling! |