Subject: Accountable for every commandment? |
Bible Note: Greetings Charis, We have already seen that believing on Jesus is an absolute essential for salvation. We have already seen that repentance is an absolute essential for salvation. Now the question, "What about water baptism?" There is much debate on this subject. One of the main subjects to be considered in this discussion is that salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ "apart from all works." This statement is absolutely true. It is written, Eph 2:8,9-FOR BY GRACE ARE YE SAVED THROUGH FAITH; AND THAT NOT OF YOURSELVES: IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD: NOT OF WORKS, LEST ANY MAN SHOULD BOAST. Now the questions arise: "Is calling on the name of the Lord classified as works?" "Is repentance classified as works?" "Is water baptism classified as works?" The answer to all three of these questions is no. No where in the Bible is calling on Jesus, repentance, water baptism, or reading the Bible classified as a form of works. Those that relate these things to works or the works of the Law appear to be greatly misled. One might say that repentance can certainly be very hard work, or very difficult. There are certain things or areas in each of our lives where the flesh does not want to repent, but never does the Bible classify repentance as works. It is the same for baptism. Water baptism is a command for all that repent and believe. It is not classified as "works." Hearing or reading the Bible might be considered as work or a chore by some, yet it is never classified as "works" in relation to working or earning your way into heaven. We need to hear and read God’s Word to learn more about God. Faith comes by hearing God’s Word. Thank you for your response, I have enjoyed your postings. God bless! |