Bible Question: I hear so much debate about baptism. Is it a work? Is it a requirement for salvation? Are we saved before baptism? On, and on, and on... My question is, with so much that is said about baptism in the bible, the examples of conversion, the answers Peter and Paul give to the questions, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" and "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" (Acts 2:37, 16:30 respectively) can someone explain to me scripturally whether baptism is necessary or not for salvation? If it is, why? If it is not, why? |
Bible Answer: Dear Teacher, Greetings in the name of Jesus! With fear and trepidation I wander yet again into the quagmire of this topic. I pray that I can simplify the issue, not muddy it up! :-) The Bible speaks of three baptisms in the New Testament. All three are for our cleansing (washing), so it seems to me that they all are for our sanctification while we walk the 'pilgrim path.' This path starts when we are apprehended by the Lord and given the gift of faith to believe on Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. The path ends when we meet God after our death or 'in the air.' First let me outline my thoughts on salvation and sanctification. I personally believe that we are saved (in time-limited human terms) from the moment recognize His Lordship. However, the Lord knew us from before our birth, and knows the outcome of our life in eternity. So, from God's vantage, our salvation is secured and complete. But from our lowly viewpoint, limited by time and situation, we make (feeble) attempts to explain eternal things. This is where our earthly sanctification 'process' enters the picture. Upon recognition of our favor in God's sight, we are called to please Him. God rejoices when we continue in the path of repentance from our ways into His. This is called by many names, but is in effect a washing away of the old man of sin and death, and becomeing the new creation He longs to see. True, we are already 'clean' at the moment of salvation (even before!), but I have yet to meet a Christian who is complete in man's eyes. The tools we have at our disposal are the washings (baptisms) that God provides. These are 'available,' but not really at our 'beck and call.' In fact, only water baptism allows us any real, physical choice. Baptism in the Spirit and baptism of fire seem to be wholly according to God's will. But is even water baptism just a ritual or tradition? I don't think so. I think that water baptism is connected with the 'circumcision of heart' prophesied in the Old Testament (Deuteronomy 10:16, 30:6, Jeremiah 4:4), and confirmed in the New Testament (Colossians 2:11,12). The Lord gives opportunity, and rejoices when we are obedient to submit to water baptism. It is not a 'requirement' for salvation, but acceptable and pleasing in God's sight. In the same manner, recognizing the cleansing work of the Holy Spirit, being sensitive to His immediate presence in our life gives God pleasure. Finally, when the cleansing fire of the Lord is applied to our lives for reproof, we must submit in humility and repentance, and this further sanctification is granted us. I understand fully that my 'model' gives complete authority for our salvation and sanctification to the Lord. It does not make a place for man to 'choose' his fate. I believe that God chose me, not I chose Him. But now, after knowing of His plan for me, I make every attempt to gain His approval. I long to hear His words, "Well done, faithful servant. Enter into My joy!" (Matthew 25:21) I entrust my 'reward' unto Him! (1 Corinthians 3:10-15) Simple, huh? :-) In Christ Jesus, charis |