I know this thread will probably cause a big debate. I also know that it is not written with the intent of so-doing. This thread provides my thoughts on the subject and the Biblical references I give for my viewpoint. Mainly Acts 16:31-34
It has become my belief that far too many people place too high of an emphasis on being baptised. Of course, God says that we should be baptized. But some say that this baptism is what saves you. My friends why do you think this way? Do you have more faith in the water than in the Blood of Jesus Christ? Is it not the Blood of Jesus that washes away our sins, instead of the water in the local church, river, ocean, etc? You put people down because they say that being baptised is not required to save them. Where are the encouraging words of which Paul commands us? The thief on the cross could not come down to be baptized in water, and yet he was saved. Do you deny this? "It is by grace you have been saved, not by works" The grace of God, not water. The Blood of our Lord Jesus, not water. That is why John the Baptist said "I baptise you with water for repentance. But after me will come one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and with fire." (Matt 3:11) This "water" baptism is for repentance not salvation, only the Blood of Christ can save you. Please encourage others to be baptized and repent, but don't say that will save them. Inform them of the power of the Blood of Christ first that they may believe on His name and be saved. Then inform them of baptism as an obedience thing, to declare their new-found life and for repentance as according to John the Baptist, it was intended.
It has become my belief that far too many people place too high of an emphasis on being baptised. Of course, God says that we should be baptized. But some say that this baptism is what saves you. My friends why do you think this way? Do you have more faith in the water than in the Blood of Jesus Christ? Is it not the Blood of Jesus that washes away our sins, instead of the water in the local church, river, ocean, etc? You put people down because they say that being baptised is not required to save them. Where are the encouraging words of which Paul commands us? The thief on the cross could not come down to be baptized in water, and yet he was saved. Do you deny this? "It is by grace you have been saved, not by works" The grace of God, not water. The Blood of our Lord Jesus, not water. That is why John the Baptist said "I baptise you with water for repentance. But after me will come one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and with fire." (Matt 3:11) This "water" baptism is for repentance not salvation, only the Blood of Christ can save you. Please encourage others to be baptized and repent, but don't say that will save them. Inform them of the power of the Blood of Christ first that they may believe on His name and be saved. Then inform them of baptism as an obedience thing, to declare their new-found life and for repentance as according to John the Baptist, it was intended.