justbyfaith
Well-Known Member
Amen. I believe that we are actually in agreement!I'm not trying to make it seem like I don't value baptism. Baptism is a must for the believer. It is the putting away of the old man and a circumcision of the flesh, a work done by God. Baptism is important, but alone it does not save. Faith, belief, repentance, and baptism are all important but we must realize that ultimately it is the grace of God that saves. Those who truly believe the Gospel will be baptized.
The Bible can talk about baptism saving because it is connected with the union of Christ that saves, and pictures the death, burial, and resurrection. Baptism done without faith won't profit anything, just like faith without works (fruit) is dead.
The heart of a person is cleansed by faith (Acts 15:9) and we are justified by faith (Rom. 5:1)
In addition to what you have said, baptism is often a confession of Jesus Christ before men when it does happen (see Matthew 10:32, Luke 12:8); and as such I do not see how it can ever be done apart from faith in Him.
Last edited: