Subject: Is baptism a work? |
Bible Note: Dear Cyclist, Greetings in the name of Jesus! Brother, I commend you on your enthusiasm and manifest joy! I, too, wonder where the 'works,' 'requirements,' or 'neuter' ideas about water baptism come from. I feel that anyone with faith in God, the courage to ignore the traditions of men, and the conviction to read the Bible without prejudice, would come to the same conclusion as you and me. Jesus set the example for His followers, and they responded in obedience while under His tutelage, and later in the leading of the Holy Spirit. God is well-pleased with those that desire earnestly to please Him! I wonder if it pleases the Lord when a believer is water baptized only because he is told 1)"Otherwise, you're not saved!" (i.e. fear!) or 2)"It's just an outward show of what has already happened!" (i.e confirming religious ritual)? Or can the Lord be pleased when His people refuse baptism, saying, "Who cares?"(!) or "The early church needed it, but now our faith is 'mature!" (Yeah, right!)? I say an emphatic "NO!" in both cases. We NEED water baptism for our sanctification, not salvation. And it must be administered and received in faith, not ritual. The result is indeed, "WOW!" My friend, I wish my experience was as 'poetic!' :-) Though I knew the Bible recommended (I know, commanded) water baptism, I was putting it off. Then, one day I found myself standing at the top of the stairs leading into a baptistry. (I blame [BLESS!!] my wife for this predicament :-)) There were no trumpets trumping or angels singing (at least, not in MY ears), but I can solemnly proclaim that a washing took place that changed my life! Blessings and peace to you and yours. In Christ Jesus, charis |