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P
Newbirth, apparently you Overlooked this Info
Acts 22:16 And now what are you waiting for?
Get up, be baptized
and wash your sins away, calling on his name.’
As with any single verse or passage, we discern what it teaches by first filtering it through what we know the Bible teaches on the subject at hand.
In the case of baptism and salvation,
the Bible is clear that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ,
not by works of any kind, including "water baptism" (Ephesians 2:8-9).
So, any interpretation which comes to the conclusion that baptism,
or any other act, is necessary for salvation,
is a faulty interpretation.
Acts 22:16, "And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name."
The first question that must be answered is "when was Paul saved?"
Acts 22:16 And now what are you waiting for?
Get up, be baptized
and wash your sins away, calling on his name.’
As with any single verse or passage, we discern what it teaches by first filtering it through what we know the Bible teaches on the subject at hand.
In the case of baptism and salvation,
the Bible is clear that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ,
not by works of any kind, including "water baptism" (Ephesians 2:8-9).
So, any interpretation which comes to the conclusion that baptism,
or any other act, is necessary for salvation,
is a faulty interpretation.
Acts 22:16, "And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name."
The first question that must be answered is "when was Paul saved?"
- Paul tells that he did not receive or hear the Gospel from Ananias, but rather he heard it directly from Christ.
- Galatians 1:11-12 says, "For I would have you know, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ."
- So, Paul heard and believed in Christ on the road to Damascus. Paul had already believed in Christ when Ananias came to pray for him to receive his sight (Acts 9:17).
It also should be noted that Paul at the time when Ananias prayed for him to receive his sight, he also received the Holy Spirit (Acts 9:17)--
this was before he was baptized (Acts 9:18). - Acts presents a transition period where God's focus turns from Israel to the Church. The events recorded in Acts are not always normative. With regard to receiving the Holy Spirit, the norm is that a person receives and
is permanently indwelt by the Holy Spirit at the moment of salvation. - Concerning the words, "be baptized, and wash away your sins," because Paul was already cleansed spiritually at the time Christ appeared to him,
- It is also interesting that when Paul recounted this event again later in Acts (Acts 26:12-18), he did not mention Ananias or what Ananias said to him at all.
- Verse 18 again would confirm the idea that Paul received Christ as Savior on the road to Damascus since here Christ is telling Paul he will be a messenger for Him concerning forgiveness of sins for Gentiles as they have faith in Him.
It would seem unlikely that Christ would commission Paul if Paul had not yet believed in Him.
dogknox, It is Important to remember that the Scriptures do Not Contradict themselves..
And your belief about the Power of "water baptism" would Contradict Sctiptures..
Acts 22:16 there are four statements in this verse ..
Get up and be baptized go together
- Have your sins washed away
How??? by calling on the name of the Lord...
If you do Not agree with this meaning of this in verse 16
Then what does "calling on the name of the Lord"
refer to in this verse ???
P
Newbirth, Thought that you would be Interested in this Info
Remember as you read this that Scriptures can NOT contradict themselves
Remember the Definition of the words GIFT GRACE MERCY
Remember that ONLY a Blood Sacrifice can take Away Sins
Remember that Jesus Christ Knows Your Heart
Remember that there is NO Power in the water
Remember If Christ died for ALL your Sins Once and for ALL
Just what Sins does "water baptism" wash away
Remember do Not Pick and Choose part of a Verse to try to prove your Religious Beliefs
Remember Christ knows your Heart that you are Sincere in your Repentance
Question: "Does Acts 2:38 teach that baptism is necessary for salvation?"
Answer: Acts 2:38, “And Peter said to them,
‘Repent, and let each of you be baptized
in the name of Jesus Christ
for the forgiveness of your sins;
and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’”
As with any single verse or passage, we discern what it teaches by first filtering it through what we know the Bible teaches on the subject at hand.
In the case of baptism and salvation,
the Bible is clear that salvation is
by grace through faith in Jesus Christ,
not by works of any kind,
including baptism
(Ephesians 2:8-9).
So, any interpretation which comes to the conclusion
that “water baptism”, or any other act,
is necessary for salvation, is a faulty interpretation.
Why, then, do some come to the conclusion
that we must be baptized in order to be saved?
Often, the discussion of whether or not this passage teaches baptism is required for salvation centers around the Greek word eis that is translated “for” in this passage.
Those who hold to the belief that baptism is required for salvation
are quick to point to this verse
and the fact that it says
“be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ
for the forgiveness of your sins,”
assuming that the word translated “for”
in this verse means “in order to get.”
However, in both Greek and English,
there are many possible usages of the word “for.”
As an example, when one says
“Take two aspirin for your headache,”
it is obvious to everybody that it does not mean
“take two aspirin in order to get your headache,”
but instead to “take two aspirin because
you already have a headache.”
There is another grammatical aspect of this verse
to carefully consider—the change between the second person and third person
between the verbs and pronouns in the passage.
For example, in Peter’s commands to repent and be baptized
the Greek verb translated “repent”
is in the second person plural
while the verb “be baptized,”
is in the third person singular.
When we couple this with the FACT
that the pronoun “your” in the phrase
“forgiveness of your sins”
Is also second person plural,
we see an important distinction being made
that helps us understand this passage.
The result of this change from second person plural
to third person singular and back would seem to connect
the phrase “forgiveness of your sins” directly
with the command to “repent.”
Therefore, when you take into account the change
in person and plurality, essentially what you have is
“You (plural) repent for the forgiveness of your (plural) sins,
and let each one (singular) of you be baptized (singular).”
Or, to put it in a more distinct way:
“You all repent for the forgiveness of all of your sins,
and let each one of you be baptized.”
Remember as you read this that Scriptures can NOT contradict themselves
Remember the Definition of the words GIFT GRACE MERCY
Remember that ONLY a Blood Sacrifice can take Away Sins
Remember that Jesus Christ Knows Your Heart
Remember that there is NO Power in the water
Remember If Christ died for ALL your Sins Once and for ALL
Just what Sins does "water baptism" wash away
Remember do Not Pick and Choose part of a Verse to try to prove your Religious Beliefs
Remember Christ knows your Heart that you are Sincere in your Repentance
Question: "Does Acts 2:38 teach that baptism is necessary for salvation?"
Answer: Acts 2:38, “And Peter said to them,
‘Repent, and let each of you be baptized
in the name of Jesus Christ
for the forgiveness of your sins;
and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’”
As with any single verse or passage, we discern what it teaches by first filtering it through what we know the Bible teaches on the subject at hand.
In the case of baptism and salvation,
the Bible is clear that salvation is
by grace through faith in Jesus Christ,
not by works of any kind,
including baptism
(Ephesians 2:8-9).
So, any interpretation which comes to the conclusion
that “water baptism”, or any other act,
is necessary for salvation, is a faulty interpretation.
Why, then, do some come to the conclusion
that we must be baptized in order to be saved?
Often, the discussion of whether or not this passage teaches baptism is required for salvation centers around the Greek word eis that is translated “for” in this passage.
Those who hold to the belief that baptism is required for salvation
are quick to point to this verse
and the fact that it says
“be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ
for the forgiveness of your sins,”
assuming that the word translated “for”
in this verse means “in order to get.”
However, in both Greek and English,
there are many possible usages of the word “for.”
As an example, when one says
“Take two aspirin for your headache,”
it is obvious to everybody that it does not mean
“take two aspirin in order to get your headache,”
but instead to “take two aspirin because
you already have a headache.”
There is another grammatical aspect of this verse
to carefully consider—the change between the second person and third person
between the verbs and pronouns in the passage.
For example, in Peter’s commands to repent and be baptized
the Greek verb translated “repent”
is in the second person plural
while the verb “be baptized,”
is in the third person singular.
When we couple this with the FACT
that the pronoun “your” in the phrase
“forgiveness of your sins”
Is also second person plural,
we see an important distinction being made
that helps us understand this passage.
The result of this change from second person plural
to third person singular and back would seem to connect
the phrase “forgiveness of your sins” directly
with the command to “repent.”
Therefore, when you take into account the change
in person and plurality, essentially what you have is
“You (plural) repent for the forgiveness of your (plural) sins,
and let each one (singular) of you be baptized (singular).”
Or, to put it in a more distinct way:
“You all repent for the forgiveness of all of your sins,
and let each one of you be baptized.”
P
Newbirth, I am Continuing my Info about Acts 2:38
Another error that is made by those who believe Acts 2:38 teaches baptism is required for salvation is what is sometimes called the Negative Inference Fallacy.
Simply put, this is the idea that just because a statement is true,
we cannot assume all negations (or opposites)
of that statement are true.
In other words, just because Acts 2:38 says
“repent and be baptized….for the forgiveness of sins…
and the gift of the Holy Spirit,”
it does not mean that if one repents and is not baptized,
he will not receive forgiveness of sins
or the gift of the Holy Spirit.
There is an important difference between
a condition of salvation
and a requirement for salvation.
The Bible is clear that belief is both
a condition and a requirement,
But the same cannot be said for baptism.
The Bible does not say that if a man is not baptized
then he will not be saved.
One can add any number of conditions to faith
(which is required for salvation),
and the person can still be saved.
For example if a person believes, is “water baptized”,
goes to church, and gives to the poor he will be saved.
Where the error in thinking occurs is if one assumes
all these other conditions, “water baptism”,
going to church, giving to the poor,”
are Required for one to be saved.
While they might be the evidence of salvation,
they are not a requirement for salvation.
A good example of someone who was saved
before being baptized is Cornelius
and his household in Acts 10.
We know that they were saved before
being “water baptized” because
they had received the Holy Spirit,
which is the evidence of salvation
(Romans 8:9; Ephesians 1:13; 1 John 3:24).
The evidence of their salvation was the reason
Peter allowed them to be “water baptized”.
Countless passages of Scripture clearly teach
that salvation comes when one believes in the gospel,
at which time he or she is sealed
“in Christ with the Holy Spirit of promise”
(Ephesians 1:13).
In him you also, when you heard the word of truth,
the gospel of your salvation,
and believed in him,
were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit,
The fact that baptism is not required to receive forgiveness
and the gift of the Holy Spirit should also be evident
by simply reading a little farther in the book of Acts.
In these verses below the word "water baptism"
Is NOT Mentioned
And their Sins ARE Forgiven
And they ARE SAVED
Acts 3:17 “And now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers. 18 But what God foretold by the mouth of all the prophets, that his Christ would suffer, he thus fulfilled. 19 Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out,
Acts 4:8 Then Peter, ufilled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders, 9 if we are being examined today vconcerning a good deed done to a crippled man, by what means this man has been healed, 10 let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, xwhom God raised from the dead—by him this man is standing before you well. 11 This Jesusis the stone that was zrejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. 12 And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
In Acts 10:43, Peter tells Cornelius that
“through His name everyone who believes in Him
receives forgiveness of sins”
(please note that nothing at this point has been mentioned
about being “water baptized”,
yet Peter connects believing in Christ
with the act of receiving forgiveness for sins).
The next thing that happens is,
having believed Peter’s message about Christ,
the “Holy Spirit fell upon all those who were listening
to the message”
(Acts 10:44).
It is only after they had believed,
and therefore received forgiveness of their sins
and the gift of the Holy Spirit,
that Cornelius and his household were baptized
(Acts 10:47-48).
The context and the passage are very clear;
Cornelius and his household received both forgiveness of sins and the Holy Spirit
BEFORE they were ever baptized.
In FACT, the reason Peter allowed them to be baptized
was that they showed evidence of receiving the Holy Spirit
“just as Peter and the Jewish believers” had.
In conclusion, Acts 2:38 does not teach
that baptism is required for salvation.
While baptism is important as the sign
that one has been justified by faith
and as the public declaration of one’s faith in Christ
and membership in a local body of believers,
it is not the means of remission or forgiveness of sins.
The Bible is very clear that we are saved
by grace alone
through faith alone
in Christ alone
John 1:12; John 3:16; Acts 16:31; Romans 3:21-30; Romans 4:5; Romans 10:9-10; Ephesians 2:8-10; Philippians 3:9; Galatians 2:16).
Newbirth, hope this helps your Honest Understanding of this verse
Another error that is made by those who believe Acts 2:38 teaches baptism is required for salvation is what is sometimes called the Negative Inference Fallacy.
Simply put, this is the idea that just because a statement is true,
we cannot assume all negations (or opposites)
of that statement are true.
In other words, just because Acts 2:38 says
“repent and be baptized….for the forgiveness of sins…
and the gift of the Holy Spirit,”
it does not mean that if one repents and is not baptized,
he will not receive forgiveness of sins
or the gift of the Holy Spirit.
There is an important difference between
a condition of salvation
and a requirement for salvation.
The Bible is clear that belief is both
a condition and a requirement,
But the same cannot be said for baptism.
The Bible does not say that if a man is not baptized
then he will not be saved.
One can add any number of conditions to faith
(which is required for salvation),
and the person can still be saved.
For example if a person believes, is “water baptized”,
goes to church, and gives to the poor he will be saved.
Where the error in thinking occurs is if one assumes
all these other conditions, “water baptism”,
going to church, giving to the poor,”
are Required for one to be saved.
While they might be the evidence of salvation,
they are not a requirement for salvation.
A good example of someone who was saved
before being baptized is Cornelius
and his household in Acts 10.
We know that they were saved before
being “water baptized” because
they had received the Holy Spirit,
which is the evidence of salvation
(Romans 8:9; Ephesians 1:13; 1 John 3:24).
The evidence of their salvation was the reason
Peter allowed them to be “water baptized”.
Countless passages of Scripture clearly teach
that salvation comes when one believes in the gospel,
at which time he or she is sealed
“in Christ with the Holy Spirit of promise”
(Ephesians 1:13).
In him you also, when you heard the word of truth,
the gospel of your salvation,
and believed in him,
were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit,
The fact that baptism is not required to receive forgiveness
and the gift of the Holy Spirit should also be evident
by simply reading a little farther in the book of Acts.
In these verses below the word "water baptism"
Is NOT Mentioned
And their Sins ARE Forgiven
And they ARE SAVED
Acts 3:17 “And now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers. 18 But what God foretold by the mouth of all the prophets, that his Christ would suffer, he thus fulfilled. 19 Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out,
Acts 4:8 Then Peter, ufilled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders, 9 if we are being examined today vconcerning a good deed done to a crippled man, by what means this man has been healed, 10 let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, xwhom God raised from the dead—by him this man is standing before you well. 11 This Jesusis the stone that was zrejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. 12 And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
In Acts 10:43, Peter tells Cornelius that
“through His name everyone who believes in Him
receives forgiveness of sins”
(please note that nothing at this point has been mentioned
about being “water baptized”,
yet Peter connects believing in Christ
with the act of receiving forgiveness for sins).
The next thing that happens is,
having believed Peter’s message about Christ,
the “Holy Spirit fell upon all those who were listening
to the message”
(Acts 10:44).
It is only after they had believed,
and therefore received forgiveness of their sins
and the gift of the Holy Spirit,
that Cornelius and his household were baptized
(Acts 10:47-48).
The context and the passage are very clear;
Cornelius and his household received both forgiveness of sins and the Holy Spirit
BEFORE they were ever baptized.
In FACT, the reason Peter allowed them to be baptized
was that they showed evidence of receiving the Holy Spirit
“just as Peter and the Jewish believers” had.
In conclusion, Acts 2:38 does not teach
that baptism is required for salvation.
While baptism is important as the sign
that one has been justified by faith
and as the public declaration of one’s faith in Christ
and membership in a local body of believers,
it is not the means of remission or forgiveness of sins.
The Bible is very clear that we are saved
by grace alone
through faith alone
in Christ alone
John 1:12; John 3:16; Acts 16:31; Romans 3:21-30; Romans 4:5; Romans 10:9-10; Ephesians 2:8-10; Philippians 3:9; Galatians 2:16).
Newbirth, hope this helps your Honest Understanding of this verse
the scripture teaches..
Romans 6:3
Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
Galatians 3:27
For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
Romans 6:3
Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
Galatians 3:27
For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
NewB, He calls the sinners to come for rest to the Savior. He is the one who guarantees that they be delivered from sin.
Thou shalt call His name Jesus, for
HE SHALL SAVE HIS PEOPLE FROM THEIR SINS.
Nevertheless, in this life, in many things believers all stumble.
NewB, you only hope in being saved from sin, is to trust the Savior to do His job.
Thou shalt call His name Jesus, for
HE SHALL SAVE HIS PEOPLE FROM THEIR SINS.
Nevertheless, in this life, in many things believers all stumble.
NewB, you only hope in being saved from sin, is to trust the Savior to do His job.
does this answer your question???
Philippians 3:10-13King James Version (KJV)
[SUP]10 [/SUP]That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
[SUP]11 [/SUP]If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.
[SUP]12 [/SUP]Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.
[SUP]13 [/SUP]Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
Philippians 3:10-13King James Version (KJV)
[SUP]10 [/SUP]That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
[SUP]11 [/SUP]If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.
[SUP]12 [/SUP]Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.
[SUP]13 [/SUP]Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
P
Newbirth, I appreciate you taking your valuable time to express
your Opinion about "water baptism"
I hope that you will take time to Honestly read this Info.
Question: "Does Galatians 3:27 teach that baptism is necessary for salvation?"
Answer: Groups that believe that
baptism is necessary for salvation
often turn to Galatians 3:27
as one of their “proof texts” for the view
that “water baptism” is necessary for salvation.
In doing so they are ignoring the context of the passage
as well as the overall context of Scripture
to try to force their pre-conceived
theological view on this passage.
In order to determine if this passage really supports
baptismal regeneration,
one simply needs to read the immediate context
to know that it does not.
The overall context of Galatians is centered
on Paul’s rebuke that some of the Galatians
were turning from the one true gospel
to another false gospel
that could not save them (Galatians 1:6-10).
The false gospel they were embracing was one
that mixed God’s grace with works of the law,
including circumcision,
as a requirement for being saved,
much like those who add “water baptism”
as a requirement for salvation.
Paul’s message in Galatians is very, very clear—
we are justified NOT
“by the works of the law but by faith in Christ”
(Galatians 2:16).
This context of justification by faith alone
in Christ alone is seen throughout
the first three chapters of Galatians
and is reinforced in Galatians 3:26,
“For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.”
This verse, along with all other passages of Scripture
dealing with salvation, makes it clear that salvation is
“through faith in Christ Jesus,”
and since, for “water baptism” to have any meaning at all,
it must always be preceded by faith,
we can know that it is faith in Christ that saves us
not the “water baptism” that follows faith.
While “water baptism” is important as a way
of identifying us with Christ,
it only has meaning if it comes from
saving faith which always comes first.
Galatians 3:27 says, “For all of you who were baptized into Christ
have clothed yourselves with Christ.”
Is there any reason from the context of this passage to assume
that this is speaking of “water baptism?
The obvious answer is no.
There is no contextual evidence on which to
draw that conclusion.
We know from Scripture that there is more
than one type of baptism taught in the New Testament
(Hebrews 6:2),
So why should it be assumed this is speaking of water baptism?
The question we need to answer from Scripture is,
“How do we get baptized into Christ?”
Or another way of asking it is
“what makes a person a Christian?”
Or maybe, “What is the single most important difference between a Christian and a non-Christian?”
The answer to these questions is found in
Romans 8:9,
“But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit,
if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you.
Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ,
he is not his.”
Scripture is very clear that the determining factor
for whether or not one is a Christian
is the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.
With that truth in mind let’s look at another passage
that speaks of being “baptized” into Christ.
“For as the body is one and has many members,
but all the members of that one body,
being many, are one body, so also is Christ.
For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—
whether Jews or Greeks,
whether slaves or free—
and have all be made to drink into one Spirit”
(1 Corinthians 12:12-13).
What is it that makes one a Christian?
It is being indwelt by the Holy Spirit.
What baptism is it that puts us into Christ
or makes us a part of Christ’s body?
It is the baptism “by one Spirit.”
Clearly, the baptism that 1 Corinthians 12:12-13
and Galatians 3:27 are speaking of
is NOT “water baptism” at all.
It is the baptism of the Holy Spirit
whereby we are
“sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise”
(Ephesians 1:13-14)
and are made part of Christ’s body
as we are indwelt by His Holy Spirit.
Jesus promised His disciples before He left them
that He would send them “another helper,
” the Holy Spirit who “dwells with you
and will be in you” (John 14:16-18).
The indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit
is what baptizes us into the body of Christ,
as seen clearly in 1 Corinthians 12:12-13.
John the Baptist prophesied that,
while he was sent to “baptize with water,”
Jesus was the One who would
“baptize with the Holy Spirit”
(John 1:33-34).
It is that baptism, the point that we receive
the indwelling of the Holy Spirit,
that “baptizes” us into the body of Christ.
Galatians 3:27 is NOT referring to “water baptism” at all.
Water baptism is symbolic of what is accomplished
when we are baptized into one body
by one Spirit.
The baptism of the Holy Spirit is what matters.
When we receive the indwelling presence
of the Holy Spirit as promised by Christ
is when we become part of the body of Christ
or are “baptized into Christ.”
Newbirth..
Those who try to force baptismal regeneration
into Galatians 3:27 have
no scriptural grounds for doing so.
You have made the comment to take
Scripture in Context;
Here is your chance..
your Opinion about "water baptism"
I hope that you will take time to Honestly read this Info.
Question: "Does Galatians 3:27 teach that baptism is necessary for salvation?"
Answer: Groups that believe that
baptism is necessary for salvation
often turn to Galatians 3:27
as one of their “proof texts” for the view
that “water baptism” is necessary for salvation.
In doing so they are ignoring the context of the passage
as well as the overall context of Scripture
to try to force their pre-conceived
theological view on this passage.
In order to determine if this passage really supports
baptismal regeneration,
one simply needs to read the immediate context
to know that it does not.
The overall context of Galatians is centered
on Paul’s rebuke that some of the Galatians
were turning from the one true gospel
to another false gospel
that could not save them (Galatians 1:6-10).
The false gospel they were embracing was one
that mixed God’s grace with works of the law,
including circumcision,
as a requirement for being saved,
much like those who add “water baptism”
as a requirement for salvation.
Paul’s message in Galatians is very, very clear—
we are justified NOT
“by the works of the law but by faith in Christ”
(Galatians 2:16).
This context of justification by faith alone
in Christ alone is seen throughout
the first three chapters of Galatians
and is reinforced in Galatians 3:26,
“For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.”
This verse, along with all other passages of Scripture
dealing with salvation, makes it clear that salvation is
“through faith in Christ Jesus,”
and since, for “water baptism” to have any meaning at all,
it must always be preceded by faith,
we can know that it is faith in Christ that saves us
not the “water baptism” that follows faith.
While “water baptism” is important as a way
of identifying us with Christ,
it only has meaning if it comes from
saving faith which always comes first.
Galatians 3:27 says, “For all of you who were baptized into Christ
have clothed yourselves with Christ.”
Is there any reason from the context of this passage to assume
that this is speaking of “water baptism?
The obvious answer is no.
There is no contextual evidence on which to
draw that conclusion.
We know from Scripture that there is more
than one type of baptism taught in the New Testament
(Hebrews 6:2),
So why should it be assumed this is speaking of water baptism?
The question we need to answer from Scripture is,
“How do we get baptized into Christ?”
Or another way of asking it is
“what makes a person a Christian?”
Or maybe, “What is the single most important difference between a Christian and a non-Christian?”
The answer to these questions is found in
Romans 8:9,
“But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit,
if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you.
Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ,
he is not his.”
Scripture is very clear that the determining factor
for whether or not one is a Christian
is the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.
With that truth in mind let’s look at another passage
that speaks of being “baptized” into Christ.
“For as the body is one and has many members,
but all the members of that one body,
being many, are one body, so also is Christ.
For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—
whether Jews or Greeks,
whether slaves or free—
and have all be made to drink into one Spirit”
(1 Corinthians 12:12-13).
What is it that makes one a Christian?
It is being indwelt by the Holy Spirit.
What baptism is it that puts us into Christ
or makes us a part of Christ’s body?
It is the baptism “by one Spirit.”
Clearly, the baptism that 1 Corinthians 12:12-13
and Galatians 3:27 are speaking of
is NOT “water baptism” at all.
It is the baptism of the Holy Spirit
whereby we are
“sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise”
(Ephesians 1:13-14)
and are made part of Christ’s body
as we are indwelt by His Holy Spirit.
Jesus promised His disciples before He left them
that He would send them “another helper,
” the Holy Spirit who “dwells with you
and will be in you” (John 14:16-18).
The indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit
is what baptizes us into the body of Christ,
as seen clearly in 1 Corinthians 12:12-13.
John the Baptist prophesied that,
while he was sent to “baptize with water,”
Jesus was the One who would
“baptize with the Holy Spirit”
(John 1:33-34).
It is that baptism, the point that we receive
the indwelling of the Holy Spirit,
that “baptizes” us into the body of Christ.
Galatians 3:27 is NOT referring to “water baptism” at all.
Water baptism is symbolic of what is accomplished
when we are baptized into one body
by one Spirit.
The baptism of the Holy Spirit is what matters.
When we receive the indwelling presence
of the Holy Spirit as promised by Christ
is when we become part of the body of Christ
or are “baptized into Christ.”
Newbirth..
Those who try to force baptismal regeneration
into Galatians 3:27 have
no scriptural grounds for doing so.
You have made the comment to take
Scripture in Context;
Here is your chance..
P
Newbirth, where is the word "water baptism"
In your quote above???
Apparently you need to re read this info
The first question that must be answered is "when was Paul saved?"
In your quote above???
Apparently you need to re read this info
The first question that must be answered is "when was Paul saved?"
- Paul tells that he did not receive or hear the Gospel from Ananias, but rather he heard it directly from Christ.
- Galatians 1:11-12 says, "For I would have you know, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ."
- So, Paul heard and believed in Christ on the road to Damascus. Paul had already believed in Christ when Ananias came to pray for him to receive his sight (Acts 9:17).
It also should be noted that Paul at the time when Ananias prayed for him to receive his sight, he also received the Holy Spirit (Acts 9:17)--
this was before he was baptized (Acts 9:18). - Acts presents a transition period where God's focus turns from Israel to the Church. The events recorded in Acts are not always normative. With regard to receiving the Holy Spirit, the norm is that a person receives and
is permanently indwelt by the Holy Spirit at the moment of salvation. - Concerning the words, "be baptized, and wash away your sins," because Paul was already cleansed spiritually at the time Christ appeared to him,
- It is also interesting that when Paul recounted this event again later in Acts (Acts 26:12-18), he did not mention Ananias or what Ananias said to him at all.
- Verse 18 again would confirm the idea that Paul received Christ as Savior on the road to Damascus since here Christ is telling Paul he will be a messenger for Him concerning forgiveness of sins for Gentiles as they have faith in Him.
It would seem unlikely that Christ would commission Paul if Paul had not yet believed in Him.
I reply: "The great Commission" is very clear... "Make DISCIPLES BAPTIZING"!
Baptism makes DISCIPLES!
Speaking for God... "IN God' name" with the AUTHORITY of God... "REPRESENTING God" make DISCIPLES!
Disciples are God' CHILDREN!!!!
Disciples are formed by the waters of BAPTISM!
PACEMAKER CHURCH, the BRIDE does the FORMING of God' Children!
In the name of the "FATHER"... With all of God' AUTHORITY; The FATHERS AUTHORITY make DISCIPLES of all nations by BAPTIZING!
In the name of the "SON"... With all of God' AUTHORITY; All of, The SONS AUTHORITY make DISCIPLES by BAPTIZING!
In the name of the "HOLY SPIRIT"... With all of God' AUTHORITY; The HOLY SPIRITS AUTHORITY, make DISCIPLES of all nations by BAPTIZING!
PACEMAKER In the name of GOD... With all of God' AUTHORITY given by Jesus to HIS CHURCH; make DISCIPLES by BAPTIZING all nations!
PACEMAKER DO YOU SEE>> All NATIONS.. Clearly the people (all Nations) are living people so the BAPTISM of the BRIDE RE-FORMS these living people! RE-FORMS them into God' CHILDREN, with God' AUTHORITY!!
The BRIDE does the BAPTIZING with the AUTHORITY of God and with WATER! (above) Clearly the Commission was Given to the BRIDE!!
PACEMAKER Bride PLUS God make God' children!
Jesus sends the Holy Spirit as a GIFT!!!
On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about.
Baptism makes DISCIPLES!
Speaking for God... "IN God' name" with the AUTHORITY of God... "REPRESENTING God" make DISCIPLES!
Disciples are God' CHILDREN!!!!
Disciples are formed by the waters of BAPTISM!
PACEMAKER CHURCH, the BRIDE does the FORMING of God' Children!
In the name of the "FATHER"... With all of God' AUTHORITY; The FATHERS AUTHORITY make DISCIPLES of all nations by BAPTIZING!
In the name of the "SON"... With all of God' AUTHORITY; All of, The SONS AUTHORITY make DISCIPLES by BAPTIZING!
In the name of the "HOLY SPIRIT"... With all of God' AUTHORITY; The HOLY SPIRITS AUTHORITY, make DISCIPLES of all nations by BAPTIZING!
PACEMAKER In the name of GOD... With all of God' AUTHORITY given by Jesus to HIS CHURCH; make DISCIPLES by BAPTIZING all nations!
PACEMAKER DO YOU SEE>> All NATIONS.. Clearly the people (all Nations) are living people so the BAPTISM of the BRIDE RE-FORMS these living people! RE-FORMS them into God' CHILDREN, with God' AUTHORITY!!
The BRIDE does the BAPTIZING with the AUTHORITY of God and with WATER! (above) Clearly the Commission was Given to the BRIDE!!
PACEMAKER Bride PLUS God make God' children!
Jesus sends the Holy Spirit as a GIFT!!!
On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about.
Paul was persecuting christians ...he did not believe in Christ....then Christ chose him and preached the gospel to him and showed him many things...and of course he believed....but he had to go through the process as everyone else.....your words would make Ananias a liar...
[SUP]17 [/SUP]And Ananias departed, and entered into the house; and laying his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, who appeared unto thee in the way which thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mayest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Spirit.
[SUP]18 [/SUP]And straightway there fell from his eyes as it were scales, and he received his sight; and he arose and was baptized;
[SUP]18 [/SUP]And straightway there fell from his eyes as it were scales, and he received his sight; and he arose and was baptized;
[SUP]17 [/SUP]And Ananias departed, and entered into the house; and laying his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, who appeared unto thee in the way which thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mayest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Spirit.
[SUP]18 [/SUP]And straightway there fell from his eyes as it were scales, and he received his sight; and he arose and was baptized;
[SUP]18 [/SUP]And straightway there fell from his eyes as it were scales, and he received his sight; and he arose and was baptized;
No takers? Well, that's OK. He wasn't water baptized, or didn't find that worthy of mention.
Saul (Paul) repented on the Damascus road, encountered Jesus there, got through the immediate effects of that encounter (eyes blinded by scales, healed), then went into seclusion to hear from the Lord more.
In his epistles he makes it clear he didn't include water baptism as a significant part of his ministry. Why?
John's water baptism was about "I now realize I have sinned and need help from God. I must repent of sin." That baptism led up to the earliest point of salvation, repenting of sin. It looked "unto" Christ which was to come saving. Jesus required repentance, then took it from there for us. So water baptism, the baptism of John the baptist, was a looking forward to the baptism in the Spirit John said was coming. Paul met those conditions. He saw, he repented, he followed Jesus. Why make much about doing the first things over? Once a person agrees with God, is found in Christ, Christ in him, no step prior could make a difference.
So it is that water John's baptism is a sign of the ministry of Jesus to come. That came and is with us still. Why look further for that to come?
Yet, Jesus, who came, submitted to that baptism to "fulfill all righteousness". Jesus didn't command all His followers to do the same, but it not at all hurtful to bear that sign of true repentance of sin before God. Beyond that initial respoinse to God we value remembrance of our decision for Christ. Our first act of response had better be like that of Saul (Paul), repentance from the heart and mind, being instantly spirit baptized in the Spirit by Jesus. Then and only then does the physical sign of that event make sense. Is the physical act of John's looking to the future promise secure our salvation? No. It is, however, a testimony before neighbors of our decision. God already knows our intention. Lacking a lot of knowledge of what to do next after being filled with Christ, that act does appear quite proper. Grow in the truth of Christ and eventually move on past the baby steps like baptisms.
Saul (Paul) repented on the Damascus road, encountered Jesus there, got through the immediate effects of that encounter (eyes blinded by scales, healed), then went into seclusion to hear from the Lord more.
In his epistles he makes it clear he didn't include water baptism as a significant part of his ministry. Why?
John's water baptism was about "I now realize I have sinned and need help from God. I must repent of sin." That baptism led up to the earliest point of salvation, repenting of sin. It looked "unto" Christ which was to come saving. Jesus required repentance, then took it from there for us. So water baptism, the baptism of John the baptist, was a looking forward to the baptism in the Spirit John said was coming. Paul met those conditions. He saw, he repented, he followed Jesus. Why make much about doing the first things over? Once a person agrees with God, is found in Christ, Christ in him, no step prior could make a difference.
So it is that water John's baptism is a sign of the ministry of Jesus to come. That came and is with us still. Why look further for that to come?
Yet, Jesus, who came, submitted to that baptism to "fulfill all righteousness". Jesus didn't command all His followers to do the same, but it not at all hurtful to bear that sign of true repentance of sin before God. Beyond that initial respoinse to God we value remembrance of our decision for Christ. Our first act of response had better be like that of Saul (Paul), repentance from the heart and mind, being instantly spirit baptized in the Spirit by Jesus. Then and only then does the physical sign of that event make sense. Is the physical act of John's looking to the future promise secure our salvation? No. It is, however, a testimony before neighbors of our decision. God already knows our intention. Lacking a lot of knowledge of what to do next after being filled with Christ, that act does appear quite proper. Grow in the truth of Christ and eventually move on past the baby steps like baptisms.
Word_Swordsman THINK: If you are NOT reborn you cannot enter the kingdom!
3 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.
FACT: Must agree>> Must be Re-BORN!!!
5Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.
FACT: MUST AGREE>> Must be born of water! WATER cannot be of the womb, simply because....
Because the Apostles baptized with WATER!!!
Philip baptized the Eunuch with WATER!!!
Word_Swordsman.. So the question is: Does the waters of baptism save! Can a person enter the kingdom if NOT baptized by the church!
Answer can only be NO!!!!
3000 were ADDED to the body of Jesus by baptism!!!
Church always baptizes with WATER!!!!
Thus Baptism with water saves! LOGIC...
Logic tells you IF...
If you are "IN Jesus' body then you are God' child! "Child of God!"
3000 were ADDED to the Body of Jesus the first day of Pentecost! Acts 2 >>>>BY THE ACTIONS OF THE CHURCH!!!!<<<<
Fact: MUST AGREE; The church added 3000 PEOPLE TO THE BODY OF JESUS BY baptism!! Acts 2
Word_Swordsman The Good thief was NOT baptized by the Church... He died before Pentecost! He was NOT added to the Body of Jesus by the bride!!!
FACT: The Good Thief did not enter the Kingdom.. He entered a GARDEN!!!
Paradise is a GARDEN!
Revelation 2:7
Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.
Do you see it.... QUESTION: Where is the tree of life???
Do you see it??!! Paradise is a GARDEN!!!! The thief did not enter the KINGDOM!!
Matthew 11:11
Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
Word_Swordsman Do you see it?? Least in the KINGDOM is greater then John!!!
John did not enter the Kingdom..
Word_Swordsman John was NOT baptized by the Church.. John died before Pentecost!!!
John was NOT "RE-BORN" by the water of Baptism, by the actions of the Bride!
QUESTION... WHY..
Why did John NOT enter the KINGDOM!!?
Was John without sin??? Note his baptism was for the forgiveness of sins!
3 Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.
FACT: Must agree>> Must be Re-BORN!!!
5Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.
FACT: MUST AGREE>> Must be born of water! WATER cannot be of the womb, simply because....
Because the Apostles baptized with WATER!!!
Philip baptized the Eunuch with WATER!!!
Word_Swordsman.. So the question is: Does the waters of baptism save! Can a person enter the kingdom if NOT baptized by the church!
Answer can only be NO!!!!
3000 were ADDED to the body of Jesus by baptism!!!
Church always baptizes with WATER!!!!
Thus Baptism with water saves! LOGIC...
Logic tells you IF...
If you are "IN Jesus' body then you are God' child! "Child of God!"
3000 were ADDED to the Body of Jesus the first day of Pentecost! Acts 2 >>>>BY THE ACTIONS OF THE CHURCH!!!!<<<<
Fact: MUST AGREE; The church added 3000 PEOPLE TO THE BODY OF JESUS BY baptism!! Acts 2
Word_Swordsman The Good thief was NOT baptized by the Church... He died before Pentecost! He was NOT added to the Body of Jesus by the bride!!!
FACT: The Good Thief did not enter the Kingdom.. He entered a GARDEN!!!
Paradise is a GARDEN!
Revelation 2:7
Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.
Do you see it.... QUESTION: Where is the tree of life???
Do you see it??!! Paradise is a GARDEN!!!! The thief did not enter the KINGDOM!!
Matthew 11:11
Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
Word_Swordsman Do you see it?? Least in the KINGDOM is greater then John!!!
John did not enter the Kingdom..
Word_Swordsman John was NOT baptized by the Church.. John died before Pentecost!!!
John was NOT "RE-BORN" by the water of Baptism, by the actions of the Bride!
QUESTION... WHY..
Why did John NOT enter the KINGDOM!!?
Was John without sin??? Note his baptism was for the forgiveness of sins!
the scripture says...[SUP]17 [/SUP]And Ananias departed, and entered into the house; and laying his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, who appeared unto thee in the way which thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mayest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Spirit.
[SUP]18 [/SUP]And straightway there fell from his eyes as it were scales, and he received his sight; and he arose and was baptized;
[SUP]18 [/SUP]And straightway there fell from his eyes as it were scales, and he received his sight; and he arose and was baptized;
P
Question: "Does John 3:5 teach that baptism is necessary for salvation?"
As with any single verse or passage, we discern what it teaches by first filtering it through what we know the Bible teaches on the subject at hand.
In the case of baptism and salvation,
the Bible is clear that salvation is
by grace through faith in Jesus Christ,
not by works of any kind,
including baptism
(Ephesians 2:8-9).
So, any interpretation which comes to the conclusion
that “water baptism”, or any other act,
is necessary for salvation, is a faulty interpretation.
John 3:3-7, “Jesus answered and said to him, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.' Nicodemus said to Him, 'How can a man be born when he is old? He cannot enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born, can he?' Jesus answered, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, 'You must be born again.'"
When first considering this passage, it is important to note that nowhere
in the context of the passage is baptism even mentioned.
While baptism is mentioned later in this chapter (John 3:22-30), that is in a totally different setting (Judea instead of Jerusalem) and at a different time
from the discussion with Nicodemus.
This is not to say Nicodemus was unfamiliar with baptism,
either from the Jewish practice of baptizing Gentile converts to Judaism,
or from John the Baptist’s ministry.
However, simply reading these verses in context would give one no reason to assume Jesus was speaking of baptism,
unless one was looking to read into the passage a preconceived idea or theology.
To automatically read baptism into this verse simply because it mentions “water” is unwarranted.
Those who hold baptism to be required for salvation point to “born of water” as evidence.
As one person has put it, “Jesus describes it and tells him plainly how—
by being born of water and the Spirit.
This is a perfect description of baptism!
Jesus could not have given a more detailed and accurate explanation of baptism.”
However, had Jesus actually wanted to say that one must be baptized to be saved,
He clearly could have simply stated, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is baptized and born of the Spirit,
he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.”
Further, if Jesus had made such a statement,
He would have contradicted numerous other Bible passages that make it clear that salvation is by faith
(John 3:16; John 3:36; Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5).
We should also not lose sight of the fact that when Jesus was speaking to Nicodemus,
the ordinance of Christian baptism was not yet in effect.
This important inconsistency in interpreting Scripture is seen when one asks those who believe baptism is required for salvation why the thief on the cross did not need to be baptized to be saved. A common reply to that question is: “The thief on the cross was still under the Old Covenant and therefore not subject to this baptism
He was saved just like anyone else under the Old Covenant.”
So, in essence, the same people who say the thief did not need to be baptized because he was “under the Old Covenant” will use John 3:5 as “proof”
that baptism is necessary for salvation.
They insist that Jesus is telling Nicodemus that he must be baptized to be saved,
even though he too was under the Old Covenant.
If the thief on the cross was saved without being baptized
(because he was under the Old Covenant),
why would Jesus tell Nicodemus
(who was also under the Old Covenant)
that he needed to be baptized?
As with any single verse or passage, we discern what it teaches by first filtering it through what we know the Bible teaches on the subject at hand.
In the case of baptism and salvation,
the Bible is clear that salvation is
by grace through faith in Jesus Christ,
not by works of any kind,
including baptism
(Ephesians 2:8-9).
So, any interpretation which comes to the conclusion
that “water baptism”, or any other act,
is necessary for salvation, is a faulty interpretation.
John 3:3-7, “Jesus answered and said to him, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.' Nicodemus said to Him, 'How can a man be born when he is old? He cannot enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born, can he?' Jesus answered, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, 'You must be born again.'"
When first considering this passage, it is important to note that nowhere
in the context of the passage is baptism even mentioned.
While baptism is mentioned later in this chapter (John 3:22-30), that is in a totally different setting (Judea instead of Jerusalem) and at a different time
from the discussion with Nicodemus.
This is not to say Nicodemus was unfamiliar with baptism,
either from the Jewish practice of baptizing Gentile converts to Judaism,
or from John the Baptist’s ministry.
However, simply reading these verses in context would give one no reason to assume Jesus was speaking of baptism,
unless one was looking to read into the passage a preconceived idea or theology.
To automatically read baptism into this verse simply because it mentions “water” is unwarranted.
Those who hold baptism to be required for salvation point to “born of water” as evidence.
As one person has put it, “Jesus describes it and tells him plainly how—
by being born of water and the Spirit.
This is a perfect description of baptism!
Jesus could not have given a more detailed and accurate explanation of baptism.”
However, had Jesus actually wanted to say that one must be baptized to be saved,
He clearly could have simply stated, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is baptized and born of the Spirit,
he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.”
Further, if Jesus had made such a statement,
He would have contradicted numerous other Bible passages that make it clear that salvation is by faith
(John 3:16; John 3:36; Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5).
We should also not lose sight of the fact that when Jesus was speaking to Nicodemus,
the ordinance of Christian baptism was not yet in effect.
This important inconsistency in interpreting Scripture is seen when one asks those who believe baptism is required for salvation why the thief on the cross did not need to be baptized to be saved. A common reply to that question is: “The thief on the cross was still under the Old Covenant and therefore not subject to this baptism
He was saved just like anyone else under the Old Covenant.”
So, in essence, the same people who say the thief did not need to be baptized because he was “under the Old Covenant” will use John 3:5 as “proof”
that baptism is necessary for salvation.
They insist that Jesus is telling Nicodemus that he must be baptized to be saved,
even though he too was under the Old Covenant.
If the thief on the cross was saved without being baptized
(because he was under the Old Covenant),
why would Jesus tell Nicodemus
(who was also under the Old Covenant)
that he needed to be baptized?
The thief on the cross was more literally baptized into the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ than any other man I've ever seen in scriptures, since baptism and crucifixion is one and the same. He knew he deserved it, yet he knew Jesus would bring Him out the other side with Him into eternal life. We all deserve it. We must all submit to the death. Baptism is how we are given to fulfill the death required under the law. So it is the same with our baptism in water, our outward expression of our submission to the death, in the appointed way. There is no other way to fulfill all righteousness.
Then only people who I have ever seen refuse to be baptized as Jesus was baptized of John in the Jordon, are the rebellious and lost. By their fruit ye know them.(Mat 3:13)
Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.
(Mat 3:14)
But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?
(Mat 3:15)
And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.
Then only people who I have ever seen refuse to be baptized as Jesus was baptized of John in the Jordon, are the rebellious and lost. By their fruit ye know them.(Mat 3:13)
Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.
(Mat 3:14)
But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?
(Mat 3:15)
And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.
Yeah, it is a symbolic cymbal, clanged by the heretic clangers who cling to the clang, and sink in the fang, and clink to the clank. Though they done been showed how over & over the Bible offers salvation with no strings attached aside from believing in the Savior who did the non symbol when He actually died, was buried, and rose from the dead, which is what saves.
Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ & you shall be saved.
Moreover, "be saved" means "be saved": it does not mean get a chance, a nail to hang onto by your toe nails on the outside of the ark.
John 3
even so must the Son of man be lifted up; that whosoever believes may in him have eternal life.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whosoever believes on him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God sent not the Son into the world to judge the world; but that the world should be saved through him. He who believes on him is not judged: he who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed on the name of the only Son of God. . . .
He who believes on the Son has eternal life;
John 5:24
24 Verily, verily, I say to you, He who hears my word, and believes him who sent me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life.
John 6
Jesus said to them, I am the bread of life: he who comes to me shall not hunger, and he who believes on me shall never thirst. But I said to you, that you have seen me, and yet believe not. All that which the Father gives me shall come to me; and him who comes to me I will in no wise cast out. For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him who sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that of all that which he has given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day. For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who who beholds the Son and believes on him, should have eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.
Verily, verily, I say to you, He who believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. This is the bread which comes down out of heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. I am the living bread which came down out of heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever.
John 10
But you do not believe because you are not of my sheep. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: and
I give them eternal life; and they shall never perish, . . . .
Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ & you shall be saved.
Moreover, "be saved" means "be saved": it does not mean get a chance, a nail to hang onto by your toe nails on the outside of the ark.
John 3
even so must the Son of man be lifted up; that whosoever believes may in him have eternal life.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whosoever believes on him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God sent not the Son into the world to judge the world; but that the world should be saved through him. He who believes on him is not judged: he who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed on the name of the only Son of God. . . .
He who believes on the Son has eternal life;
John 5:24
24 Verily, verily, I say to you, He who hears my word, and believes him who sent me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life.
John 6
Jesus said to them, I am the bread of life: he who comes to me shall not hunger, and he who believes on me shall never thirst. But I said to you, that you have seen me, and yet believe not. All that which the Father gives me shall come to me; and him who comes to me I will in no wise cast out. For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him who sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that of all that which he has given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day. For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who who beholds the Son and believes on him, should have eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.
Verily, verily, I say to you, He who believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. This is the bread which comes down out of heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. I am the living bread which came down out of heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever.
John 10
But you do not believe because you are not of my sheep. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: and
I give them eternal life; and they shall never perish, . . . .