Water baptizm?

[Abbadon]

By faith we're saved, not works. A physical baptism doesn't affect a person's soul at all. Were it so, more Christians would be more Christ-like.

[SarahBeara]

baptism is important, but baptism by water is not.

[If Not For Grace]

Gee I wonder how they did it in the desert?


It's a good thing to do and you SHOULD, but it is a cermony that reflects or is symbolic of what has taken place. :holy:

[mewithoutYou_01]

People were still living under the OT til after Christ's death, then the NT took effect.Thus water baptism is essential for salvation.:yum:

I really dont think thats how it worked. It doesnt say anywhere in the bible that water baptism is ESSENTIAL for salvation. It is very strongly recomended, but you can not say it is needed. What if if a prison convict was sentenced to life and was saved in prison... does he go to hell because he is unable to be baptized?

[Shanagal]

"I baptize you with wather for repentance. But after me will come one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire." Matt 3:11 NIV

I believe that you should get baptized with water for your own self, to show your willingness to give up your past life for a new one. But I do NOT believe that it is a requirement!

I'd say it (baptism) is like a wedding ring, take the wedding ring off and you are still just as married. It is an outward display of commitment to everyone of your genuine repentance to sin.

[Mashley]

No, I don't think it's necessary to be baptized. I think baptism is a showing that you are shedding your old body when you go under the water and when you come back up you have a new body. I don't think you have to do it though.

[Taf]

You don't need to. If you belive, really belive, then you are saved, you only need to be saved once. And you are not saved if you where baptized when you where a baby, babys don't know about God, or anything like that.

[Petrarch]

What is most important is the spritual transformation, not the ritual itself.

[kimthi]

its not required for salvation, but we should be baptized anyway

[runner_for_jc]

You dont have to get babtized but you should.
Jordan Gibson*24
REPLY!!

[angelfizz]

i'm not baptised.. i don't consider myself baptist either.. but yeh... um... you can still be saved and baptised but it isn't necessary... but yeh... its your choice and jesus did say to get baptised so DO IT!
but yeh.. up to you .. just believe! and evangelise!

[*Lana*]

See, I chose "Its up 2 you to get baptized" because I have 3 people in my life that are really confusing me. My dad thinks I should wait until I am older. (i am 17yrs.old). My mom says I should do it when I am ready and willing to do it. My sister Carrie thinks I should get baptized right now. I am really confused here. My parents even disagree on this issue. So I have decided to wait when I AM READY. Because if I do it now, then I am doing it for my sister Carrie. I want to do for Jesus Christ and my self. So I am waiting until I am completely ready. :)

[Mal2]

where is the "doesn't apply to my heathen religion" choice

[n2wolves]

How do we come into contact with that cleansing blood, which our Lord shed in his death, in order to have our sins washed away? Romans 6:3 tells us how. "Or do you not know that as many of us as were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?" Since Christ shed His blood in His death, when a person is baptized into our Lord's death, it is there that he comes into contact with the blood of Christ and his sins are then washed away. Baptism is the only means of reaching His death where His blood was shed, so we can have forgiveness of sins. So, when Ananias told Paul in Acts 22:16, "And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized and wash away your sins," it was the blood of Christ that washed away Paul's sins when he was baptized.

[lionman]

Baptism is not required to get to heaven, but Jesus did command us to be baptized though. I'm sorry if I don't type this verse correctly, but I believe it's Matthew 28:19 that says "Go unto all the nations, baptizing people in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit." Don't we want to be obedient to what Jesus commanded us? If you have been saved, but not baptized, what are you waiting for? Do as Jesus commanded us.

[twyrch]

Is water baptizm required as part of our salvation or not?

To quote Mark Lowry, "It doesn't matter if you've been sprinkled, or you've been dunked. If you don't know Jesus, you just got wet. What brings us together is the Lord Jesus Christ."

[kissybug27]

Ok someone may have already asked this in this forum but I havent been on here in a long time so I havent read all the posts but .......if water baptism is suppose to wash our sins away then what about the sins we committ after being baptist? I mean as some people believe that you can't be saved until you have been baptisted in water then do they go and get dunked everytime they ask forgiveness for something? You know we are human and committ sins on almost a daily basis even if it's a little white lie or maybe we had a bad thought or lost all control and had a ciggy or something. So what then? If the water is part of salvation how many times do you have to be drowned?

[twyrch]

Ok someone may have already asked this in this forum but I havent been on here in a long time so I havent read all the posts but .......if water baptism is suppose to wash our sins away then what about the sins we committ after being baptist? I mean as some people believe that you can't be saved until you have been baptisted in water then do they go and get dunked everytime they ask forgiveness for something? You know we are human and committ sins on almost a daily basis even if it's a little white lie or maybe we had a bad thought or lost all control and had a ciggy or something. So what then? If the water is part of salvation how many times do you have to be drowned?

IMO, Baptism is merely an outward showing of our salvation through Christ.

[kissybug27]

IMO, Baptism is merely an outward showing of our salvation through Christ.


Oh I know just trying to make a little point lol....give some people something to think about is all.

[kissybug27]

See, I chose "Its up 2 you to get baptized" because I have 3 people in my life that are really confusing me. My dad thinks I should wait until I am older. (i am 17yrs.old). My mom says I should do it when I am ready and willing to do it. My sister Carrie thinks I should get baptized right now. I am really confused here. My parents even disagree on this issue. So I have decided to wait when I AM READY. Because if I do it now, then I am doing it for my sister Carrie. I want to do for Jesus Christ and my self. So I am waiting until I am completely ready. :)


And sweetie that is what you should do is wait until your are ready? It doesn't matter how old we are or what another person says. It's all about our relationship with Jesus and what He wants us to do. When Jesus thinks you are ready and mature enough for a full committment to Him He and He alone (Holy Ghost, God, whatever) will tell you it is time. I got baptisted right around the age you are now and to tell you the truth I did it for the wrong reason. I did it because I felt like I had to and because everyone else was getting baptisted. Someday I will probably do it again when I feel it is time. Just rely on Jesus and when someone tells you what you NEED to do concerning baptism or anything that matter you just tell them that You are waiting on directions from the Lord.

[GoldenStorm]

Baptism is not needed for salvation. It is commanded though. Baptism is just a public profession of your salvation.

[n2wolves]

Baptism is not needed for salvation. It is commanded though. Baptism is just a public profession of your salvation.

If its a commandment and not really needed as you claim, if your not baptized is that rebellion against God? Would you consider it a blasphemy against the Holy Spirit?

[Scholar in training]

Mark 16:16

He who believes AND IS BAPTIZED will be saved; but he who believes not will be condemned.
There is serious doubt whether Mark 16:9-20 are part of the original gospel of Mark. The NIV text note says: "Serious doubt exists as to whether these verses belong to the Gospel of Mark. They are absent from important early manuscripts and display certain peculiarities of vocabularly, style and theological content that are unlike the rest of Mark. His Gospel probably ended at 16:8, or its original ending has been lost."

[ZACTAK]

If you have been baptized once, at a very young age... within months of being born, must you be baptized again when you get older?

I am 21 and got baptized when I was a few months old. I have since changed faiths, Catholic to Disciples of Christ, and was wondering if I need to be baptized again.

[Scholar in training]

If you have been baptized once, at a very young age... within months of being born, must you be baptized again when you get older?

I am 21 and got baptized when I was a few months old. I have since changed faiths, Catholic to Disciples of Christ, and was wondering if I need to be baptized again.
I don't understand why baptism would be necessary twice. Isn't that like saying that one baptism is greater or more important than the other?

I think that it is useless to be baptized again. I assume that you have already had your life dedicated to Jesus, and I don't see what another baptism would do for you.

Mind you I am no expert on baptism, I just dislike the idea of having someone baptized twice. My advice: research it further.

[seekingpurity047]

If you have been baptized once, at a very young age... within months of being born, must you be baptized again when you get older?

I am 21 and got baptized when I was a few months old. I have since changed faiths, Catholic to Disciples of Christ, and was wondering if I need to be baptized again.

NFSteelers, I think you should get baptized again. Baby baptism isn't even scriptural. Baptism does not assure us salvation, it's a thing of worship. Jesus calls us to get baptized, yes, but once we believe in His name. Jesus got baptized at 30 years old (approx.) and He wants us to do the same. Once we understand waht it really means to get baptized, we should, regardless of whether we were baptized as babies or not. Baptism is an act of obedience for you, when you were a few months old, there was no way you could have known waht you were doing, therefore, it really meants merely nothing, oir simply just something for your parents. Get baptised out of obedience to Jesus is my suggestion to ya.

with God's grace, may He pour blessings on your soul.

[GEO4CHRIST]

It's not a recquirement, but we should get baptized if we have enough time.

[FlyerBoy]

Getting baptised isn't a requirement, but is basically what GoldenStorm said it was just a celebration to let everyone else know you have accepted Jesus. I was baptised on April 10th, 2005; just over a week ago.

[reformedfan]

Wow, what a comprehensive list of choices!

[otter272]

Konnie,if that is true how was the Thief on the Cross saved since he wasnt baptized in water



Hmmmm....that's a good point, never really thought about that.
So was that thief saved or not?

[B®ent]

I voted:

1. Yes, we must be baptized.
2. Not required for salvation, but we need to be baptized anyway.

[one way]

Salvation is more important, but we should be baptised.

[Jerrysch]

See, I chose "Its up 2 you to get baptized" because I have 3 people in my life that are really confusing me. My dad thinks I should wait until I am older. (i am 17yrs.old). My mom says I should do it when I am ready and willing to do it. My sister Carrie thinks I should get baptized right now. I am really confused here. My parents even disagree on this issue. So I have decided to wait when I AM READY. Because if I do it now, then I am doing it for my sister Carrie. I want to do for Jesus Christ and my self. So I am waiting until I am completely ready. :)

Among other things Baptism is a public statement that you are a Christian seeking to be obedient to the will of God for your life. It tells other people that you are a Christian. It should never be entered into lightly, It is a profession that you have a relationship with Jesus Christ and you are seeking to follow Him throughout your life. Don't do it till you are willing to be identified as belonging to Jesus Christ.

[otter272]

Konnie,if that is true how was the Thief on the Cross saved since he wasnt baptized in water

Perhaps someone in this thread has already answered this question, but just in case they haven't:

First reason the thief didn't need to be baptized: The thief was still under Old Testament Law since the New Law did not take effect until Jesus rose from the grave. Consider the fact that baptism is symbolic of being buried WITH Christ and rising WITH Christ. Jesus was not dead yet.

Another theory I'd like to present in the form of a question. Why do we naturally assume that the thief was not baptized? Is it entirely possible that the thief was baptized by John.

And finally, and this is a bit more absolute and probably won't really answer the questions but, remember Jesus is God and he can make exceptions anytime he wants.

[PlumTea]

I voted that we must be baptised, but now think I should have put that it is not required for salvation. It's somewhere in the middle. God does all the saving; when we believe baptism is a sign of that belief.--i think thats right--

[RedneckAngel]

Water Baptism Is Like A Wedding Ring it shows others u are saved.


:mad:U Gotta Love This Angel:mad:

[Jerrysch]

Perhaps someone in this thread has already answered this question, but just in case they haven't:

First reason the thief didn't need to be baptized: The thief was still under Old Testament Law since the New Law did not take effect until Jesus rose from the grave. Consider the fact that baptism is symbolic of being buried WITH Christ and rising WITH Christ. Jesus was not dead yet.

Another theory I'd like to present in the form of a question. Why do we naturally assume that the thief was not baptized? Is it entirely possible that the thief was baptized by John.

And finally, and this is a bit more absolute and probably won't really answer the questions but, remember Jesus is God and he can make exceptions anytime he wants.

Are you then suggesting that baptism is necessary for salvation?

[Rinpun]

As far as I know I was baptized and even if I was/wasn't, I plan to in a few years.

I think Baptism is symbolic and isn't necessarily required. Same with Communion. I would suppose it's better to get baptised and do communion than not, but God doesn't mention if you absolutely have to go to church and do all these symbolic things. HOWEVER, I do have the opinion that doing these symbolic rituals and going to Church, and et cetera WILL strengthen your faith, which is something God definitely wants you to do.

So, in my opinion, it is up to you (and/or your parents) if you want to be baptised or not.

[Yitzchak]

Baptism is important but not being baptised does not automatically prevent someone from salvation. I think that depends upon the individual situation and level of knowledge of the person. Obstinate and willful refusal to obey God could prevent someone from salvation.

[-Lily-]

I voted "Not sure".
I think it's a good thing to do, but not something you have to do to be saved.

I was baptized as a baby, but I would like to do it again now as an adult, because now it would be more like I'm personally taking a stand, not just something that is done to me. :)

[Jerrysch]

I voted "Not sure".
I think it's a good thing to do, but not something you have to do to be saved.

I was baptized as a baby, but I would like to do it again now as an adult, because now it would be more like I'm personally taking a stand, not just something that is done to me. :)

Since salvation is by faith independant of works, how then is baptism (a work) related to salavation?

[HisLilyWhitePrincess]

No it isn't required, but I think God likes you to. I personally never have been.

[jacko50]

i believe water baptism is a way of showing that we live for God, even if we dont get baptised we can still live for God. i believe its a choice we have, but its is irrelivant if we have or havnt once we are dead. whether i get dunked by my pastor or not i believe that it is only to show my peers that im serious, God knows if i am living for him or not, i dont need to go for a swim in church to show Him that im a serious christian

[lgintrnj]

you dont have to be baptized to go to heaven, though jesus was baptised so its good if we do too. what about a child who passes before age of acountability, surely that little one is not condenmed, or a person saved on their death bed.

[big1968dog]

we should do it, but it is not a necessity

[handmaiden97]

no water baptism is not essential for salvation, but it is the proper step of obedience for us to take after salvation

[Overcash]

No, you don't have to be baptized to be saved. I think it is a way of being cleansed of your sins.

[Daisysqueaks]

not needed for salvation but as an act of obedience and outward symbolance of what is occuring in one's heart

[CavFan]

I don't think it's necessary in order to go to heaven. I think it's a symbol of becoming a new person though. It shows publicly that you are going to become a new person.

[B®ent]

I don't think it's necessary in order to go to heaven. I think it's a symbol of becoming a new person though. It shows publicly that you are going to become a new person.

I once held the opposite view, but now I tend to agree with you.

[B®ent]

not needed for salvation but as an act of obedience and outward symbolance of what is occuring in one's heart

Precisely

[Willseeker]

I have been baptized, but in my heart, i feel the need to be baptized again next weekend!!!!!!

[heatherq17]

Yes, we must be baptized

[barbaraclarke]

we follow the example of Jesus he got baptised to fulfill all righteousness

[lyonguard]

Baptism through immersion represents the death, burial, and resurection of Jesus. It is not necessary, but it is something we do as an outward sign of our salvation.

[TasManOfGod]

Baptism in water is the baptism of repentance -no more -no less. It is noted that a modern "spin" is put on it but is not supported by Scripture
Incidently repentance from dead works and doctrine of baptisms are of the elementary principles of Christ (Hebrews 6)

[plum]

no, but it is an integral part of our need for purification

[Doradmer]

It is not required for salvation.
Salvation is from faith and the grace of God not anything we can do other than ask for it.
That said baptism is an outward show of the inner change and we should do it because we wish to for the Lord not cause some preacher tries to tell us it is a requirement when it isnt.

[vrunca]

yes, we need to all be baptized, only once if we are baptised in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.

[BelindaP]

Ah, but the thief died after Jesus was dead, or they would not have needed to break his legs.

Also, in Ephesians, Paul lays out the basic requirement for salvation. It is faith alone that saves. Baptism is a 'work' that follows salvation.

Ephesians 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."

[RichardFarmer]

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.

That's it. You are save through belief of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. Why doesn't everyone get it? Jesus had NO SIN. Therefore when He was baptised it didn't remove his sin. He had NO SIN. He did it because his Father comanded Him to do it.

you do not need to be baptized to go to heaven. John 3:5 is a reference to our two births: water (physical birth) and spirit (spiritual re-birth).

"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."
--Ephesians 2:8-9

Baptism is simply a step of obedience to the Lord following our repentance and confession of sin. Our obedience--water baptism, prayer, good works, fellowship, witnessing, etc.--issues from our faith in Christ. Salvation is not what we do, but Who we have.

"He that has the Son has life; and he that has not the Son of God has not life"
--1 John 5:12

I pray that you who believe differently look at the whole Word and not pick and choose what to believe. That is why we have so many denominations.

God Blesses You All!

RF

[HolyMary]

Yes, we must be baptised. Baptism washes away our original and personal sin. Original sin is the sin that we inherit from Adam and Eve. Personal sin is the sin that we personally commit. If one cannot be baptised before they die, they may still have the effects of baptism by desire.

[gal4God]

we must b baptized

[Godslilgurlalways]

No it's not required for salvation. But something that is needed though, you can still go to heaven without it.

I was baptized as a baby, baptized again when I accepted him, and baptized again about two years ago:)

[SheepingBeauty]

Is water baptizm required as part of our salvation or not?
Our salvation is between us and God. Salvation occurs when you lift yourself out of a life that was meant only to serve yourself and you start to serve God instead. That is real and total salvation. Whether or not you put water on ur head, or get dunked, or do nothing at all means nothing at all. Now, not to say that baptism isn't important. Baptism is a way to reaffirm what it is that we already feel inside; it's kind of like getting married. It really doesn't matter if you sign a legal document that says "We're married" and make it official in your state of residence, or if you just bring yourselves before God and ask for his blessing.... but if you do go through with a paper document, it is meant as a commitment, and it is important to you and your mate. That is what baptism is. If it's important to the individual and means something to them, then it's important. If it isn't important to them and it means nothing and they're perfectly content with their relationship with Jesus already, then it is a non issue.

Beauty

[Terri12345]

I was baptized as a baby: Catholic church.
Started going to a baptist church when I was 11; got baptized again when I was 14...13?...I think it was 14.

[sherlockmcbride]

I believe that baptism is very important for salvation.

[smiledaily]

not sure ?

[onyx000]

not sure?

[Ritz]

baptised as a child-water,yes.

[Jaison]

Baptism is a must for salvation
Mark 16;16 "He who believes and is baptized will be saved ; but he who does not believe will be condemned.
Mathew 28; 18 to 20 " Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
Read Acts 10; 47 (water baptism), Luke 3; 16( baptism with Holy Spirit and fire), Acts 2;38, Romans 6;3, Colossians 2;12, 1 Peter 3; 20,21

[TasManOfGod]

Has anybody here heard of being "baptized into Jesus" -being a spiritual immersion rather than a natural one?

[Zeena]

Not required, but necessary to fulfill all Righteousness :)

[TasManOfGod]

On the contrary it is fundamental to being "born again".
So often baptism into Jesus is confused with water baptism which is repentance and also confused with being baptised in the Holy Spirit which is for being endued with power. Indeed for completeness one needs to be baptised in the name of the Father (body-repentance) the Son (soul- salvation) and the Holy Spirit (spirit-power)

[Zeena]

The poll was "Is WATER baptism required" :lol:

[Zeena]

On the contrary it is fundamental to being "born again".
So often baptism into Jesus is confused with water baptism which is repentance and also confused with being baptised in the Holy Spirit which is for being endued with power. Indeed for completeness one needs to be baptised in the name of the Father (body-repentance) the Son (soul- salvation) and the Holy Spirit (spirit-power)

I agree with this statement..btw..haha

Hey, how come I can't add reputation to you?

[loudmouthchristian]

Yes, waer baptism is required. God tells us we NEED to do this. I wasn' baptised as a baby but when I was 10 I was baptised.

[Zeena]

On the contrary it is fundamental to being "born again".
So often baptism into Jesus is confused with water baptism which is repentance and also confused with being baptised in the Holy Spirit which is for being endued with power. Indeed for completeness one needs to be baptised in the name of the Father (body-repentance) the Son (soul- salvation) and the Holy Spirit (spirit-power)

Water baptism (in the body) consists of getting dunked in a pool of water as an OUTWARD sign of what has happened aleady in the persons heart and spirit..

The Baptism of God includes BOTH water AND FIRE! :)

[christian78]

Not required for salvation, but we need to be baptized anyway was my vote.

[AJB4]

Yes, the Bible says it's necessary to get baptised in water. I can't remember where, but it does, so I'm not even going to contest that.

For salvation, Baptism is a must IMO. Whether it be water or just spiritual. The Bible is absolutely crystal clear on that.

In the end, I'm not actually sure if not being baptised will actually DAMN you, but we should do it anyway, just because the Bible commanded it.

[xladyfayre]

its not a must but it should be something you want to do. i was baptized when i was like.....eh i remember the day but i cant remember my age

[Doradmer]

Baptism is a must for salvation
Mark 16;16 "He who believes and is baptized will be saved ; but he who does not believe will be condemned.

Notice it says he who does not believe not he who does not get baptized.:idea:
Baptism is required a spiritual one.
The thread specifically asked about water. It is not required. It is an outward expression of an inner action.

[Zeena]

The 'water' was an actuality already realised when our mothers water broke! :)

[Jenn4God]

Baptism is simply a public display of one's faith in Jesus Christ. It is by no means required for salvation. It has nothing to do with you "womb" birth. One cannot be properly baptized at birth. One must be old enough to be saved before being baptized since you are not supposed to be baptized until you are saved. "sprinkling" wuth water is also not a proper form of baptism. One must be emerged in water, meaning completely covered in water.

[SecretBlessings]

I believe that baptism is required for salvation

[ChrisCountryGirl]

I was baptised as a baby but I don't think it was a water baptizm

[...butterfly...]

yes...an emmercion in water

[EJXSD]

I believe in baptism by immersion, and although it is not necessary for salvation, Christ has told us to do it and we should.

[Brooke4Jesus]

I do not think that baptizm is required for salvation HOWEVER it is very very important and I think that a person should get baptized ASAP after they give their life to the Lord.

[AJB4]

The Bible says we must get baptised by water and by spirit, so I believe that we do have to. Here are some verses on it:

1 Peter 3:21 - There is also an antitype which now saves us—baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Acts 2:37-38 Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. - (which means without baptism we do not receive the gift of the holy spirit.)

Colossians 2:12 - ...buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead. (This to me indicates full immersion)

John 3:5 - Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Piecing together the pieces of the puzzle:

Baptism = Full Immersion in Water = which without we cannot receive the gift of the holy spirit, nor can we enter the Kingdom of God.

I don't know why so many people find this hard to understand. It's required because the Bible says so. You can't claim to follow the Bible and ignore this basic teaching.

[brickXbrick]

I've always believe water baptism was essential for salvation, AJB4 summed up my views on this nicely.

God Bless.

[drifter5]

It is through grace that we are saved ,not through baptism. You do not need to be baptised to be a Christian, You do not need to go to church to be a christian- it is through Jesus alone ! Jesus does reccomend that we do these things though, as He knows ,and wants, what is best for us. Going to church ,and being baptised , are helpful to us spiritually.

[Codger]

Well lets see - the Disciples memoirs say...

Mark 16:16

16Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.

Why don't I just change this to a more modern politically correct form...

Whoever believes even a little will surely be saved, but whoever does not believe may be disciplined.


There - it's been adjusted to suit the "Cheap Grace." Viewpoint.

The New Covenant is just that - a Covenant - we are expected to keep its terms - one of which is baptism.

Yes - I'm being sarcastic.

[AJB4]

Well lets see - the Disciples memoirs say...

Mark 16:16

16Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.

Why don't I just change this to a more modern politically correct form...

Whoever believes even a little will surely be saved, but whoever does not believe may be disciplined.


There - it's been adjusted to suit the "Cheap Grace." Viewpoint.

The New Covenant is just that - a Covenant - we are expected to keep its terms - one of which is baptism.

Yes - I'm being sarcastic.
This isn't really a matter to be sarcastic about. Don't forget that the last step after baptism is living faithfully.

[drifter5]

Our salvation is entirely dependent on GRACE, we can not do one thing to earn ourselves a place in heaven. "Whoever believes and is baptised will be saved . " That is: baptised in The Holy Spirit, which happens when you become a Christian, and is a work of God , not of ourselves.How could we be sure of our salvation if in any way it depended on ourselves ? It says in The Bible that even our best works are like filthy rags to God, who is perfect and Holy in every way.

[drifter5]

Water baptism is only a sign to the outside world of the holy spirit baptism that has happened within us. Water baptism, like the bread and wine at communion, has no spiritual power to save us. They are only symbols of spiritual truths.

[drifter5]

Good works do not save us, we do good works, as Christians ,to show God how much we love him. It is free GRACE,as Jesus has done all that is necessary for our salvation, when He died for us. It is NOT cheap GRACE, as it cost Jesus EVERYTHING. We only need to believe in this FREE gift of GRACE, in order to be saved.

[AJB4]

Good works do not save us, we do good works, as Christians ,to show God how much we love him. It is free GRACE,as Jesus has done all that is necessary for our salvation, when He died for us. It is NOT cheap GRACE, as it cost Jesus EVERYTHING. We only need to believe in this FREE gift of GRACE, in order to be saved.
But the Bible says that you need to be baptised in water to be saved. Did you read my post that I did before. Jesus himself said that 'Unless you are born again of water and the spirit, you will not be saved' (John 3:5).

[drifter5]

Baptism was practicesd by First century Jews in receiving Jewish converts and Gentiles as proselytes or newcomers to the Faith (who were not Jewish) as a sign of a changed heart and a devotion to Christ. The passage you quoted concerns Jesus talking to Nicodemus, a Gentile, who had questions regarding belief.

[musicalmeg20]

I think the baptism that we should be the most concerned about is the baptism by the Spirit (the acceptance of Christ). Now I am not against water baptisms, I just don't think it's essential to salvation. How I was explaining it to my friend (who is aspiring to join this faith) is that baptism doesn't save you, it's more like icing on top of the cake. You can be baptised and still not love God. Likewise, you can love God and not be baptised.

I was baptised around sixth grade or something like that. I stopped attending church not too long after that. I fell far astray and screwed up awful bad, even after being baptised by choice. Summer after Sophomore year I found Him again through a youth conference with my best friend's church. I rededicated my life to Him that summer.

I agree with a lot of the people in that I think it is more of an outward symbol of our rebirth. I haven't been baptised again with that new church, but now that I think about it, I think I'd like to...

[On_Fire_4_God_Gurl]

should be done when you feel ready. My parents haven't christened me because they want me to make the chioce of being baptized myself

[Krystina661]

Yes.. I believe you must be baptized in order to be saved. Our Heavenly Father will make sure all work is done for those who wish to be saved :)

[krys4ever]

I believe baptism is required for having complete salvation. I believe in the baptism in the name of Jesus Christ for remissions of sins. It is a washing and taking away of all sins. It is becoming a new creature, killing off the "the old man" (our flesh).

[VonBarnstejn]

Olafias wrote

“Will you, or did you, baptize your child as a baby or wait to let them make the decision when they are/were older?

The reason I ask is my Mom asked me the other day where I was going to baptize our baby. I told her we had decided to wait until he/she is older, and she got really mad, she wouldn't even look at me. Hopefully this is not a sign of the way she will react when she gives me advice that I don't follow in the future...grr!! Since moving away from home, we have found a different church that waits until children are older to be baptized, which I like. My Mom and Dad go to a Lutheran church where they baptize all the babies. So, I was wondering what everyone else will or has done.”


Now for Christians there is one general command that refers to this, called the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) which commands us to “Make disciples of all the nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you;[1] (http://www.christianforums.com/newreply.php?do=newreply&noquote=1&p=32797490#_ftn1)” From the great Commission – which is repeated in the Gospel according to St. Mark 16:16 - we learn that baptising is not just a freewill option but a command of Christ Jesus to ALL His followers, that is, to all who call themselves Christian or even to those who want to be known as Christians.[ii] (http://www.christianforums.com/newreply.php?do=newreply&noquote=1&p=32797490#_edn2)
What remains now is to determine if there are any age restrictions on baptism, I in my moderate studies of the Word of God have not found any verse commanding NOT to baptise children. Contrariwise our Lord Christ Jesus instead rebuked the disciples for NOT letting the children come to Him (Matthew 19:13-15). So far this is what we have learned from the Holy Gospels; we are to make disciples and baptise them and then teach them, note the order in which these events are to take place.
The next thing we need to find is occurrences of baptism in the Christian Church in its early days where children may have been involved, a good way to do this is to search for ‘baptism’ and/or/ ‘household’. We find the first results in the Book of the Acts of the Apostles, commonly just called Acts;

(1) Acts 16:14-16
(2) Acts 16:31-33
And from 1 Corinthians 1:16;
Here we learn from the writings of the Apostle Paul also that a whole household could be baptised at the one time. The baptism of a whole household or a whole family is not now a common thing among Christian people. It is common that we present our children for baptism in their early years or weeks even, and that is where the problem lies with some denominations. The question here revolves on the belief that God loves us so much that He gave His only Son to be sin for us and to die on the cross so that we may be saved. This selfsame sacrificed and risen Son of God tells us; “Let the children come to me!” Again I quote the very words of the risen Christ “He who believes and is baptised will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.” Mark 16:16[iii] (http://www.christianforums.com/newreply.php?do=newreply&noquote=1&p=32797490#_edn3). The choice is the parents’ or the carers’; do they want the child to be a member of the Church Universal i.e. the communion of saints – all those who are baptised, or do they want to wait a while and let them grow up as condemned people, it is a tremendous responsibility to leave your children outside the communion of saints, isn’t it?

Chaplain

Grace Evangelical Ministries:)


I acknowledge one baptism for the remission of sins. (Ephesians 4: 5; Acts 2: 38):amen:

[1] (http://www.christianforums.com/newreply.php?do=newreply&noquote=1&p=32797490#_ftnref1)The Holy Bible, New King James Version, (Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, Inc.) 1982.



Without calling upon the Holy Trinity the baptism is invalid. By the washing of regeneration we are delivers from the bondage of sin, we have been given the strength and the power to resist sin. C.F. Titus 3:4-7.

[ii] (http://www.christianforums.com/newreply.php?do=newreply&noquote=1&p=32797490#_ednref2) John Calvin writes; [I]“Baptism is the initiatory sign by which we are admitted to the fellowship of the Church.” Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book IV Ch. XV pg 513.
Martin Luther writes; “We are not primarily concerned whether the baptized person believes or not, for in the latter case Baptism does not become invalid. Everything depends upon the Word and commandment of God. … Even though a Jew should today come deceitfully and with an evil purpose, and we baptized him in all good faith, we should have to admit that his Baptism was valid.” Book of Concord, Large Catechism, BAPTISM pg 443, 52, 54. Note that a person can not be UN-Baptised, Baptism is valid forever; hence Christians say; “I AM Baptised”, not I was Baptised!"

[iii] (http://www.christianforums.com/newreply.php?do=newreply&noquote=1&p=32797490#_ednref3) The Lutheran denomination states this as follows;
Our churches teach that Baptism is necessary for salvation, that the grace of God is offered through Baptism, and that children should be baptised, for being offered to God through Baptism they are received into His grace. Our churches condemn the Anabaptists who reject the Baptism of children and declare that children are saved without Baptism." The Augsburg Confession, Article IX Baptism.

[VonBarnstejn]

Olafias wrote

“Will you, or did you, baptize your child as a baby or wait to let them make the decision when they are/were older?

The reason I ask is my Mom asked me the other day where I was going to baptize our baby. I told her we had decided to wait until he/she is older, and she got really mad, she wouldn't even look at me. Hopefully this is not a sign of the way she will react when she gives me advice that I don't follow in the future...grr!! Since moving away from home, we have found a different church that waits until children are older to be baptized, which I like. My Mom and Dad go to a Lutheran church where they baptize all the babies. So, I was wondering what everyone else will or has done.”


Now for Christians there is one general command that refers to this, called the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) which commands us to “Make disciples of all the nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit (http://www.christianforums.com/#_edn1), teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you;[I][1] (http://www.christianforums.com/#_ftn1)” From the great Commission – which is repeated in the Gospel according to St. Mark 16:16 - we learn that baptising is not just a freewill option but a command of Christ Jesus to ALL His followers, that is, to all who call themselves Christian or even to those who want to be known as Christians.[ii] (http://www.christianforums.com/#_edn2)
What remains now is to determine if there are any age restrictions on baptism, I in my moderate studies of the Word of God have not found any verse commanding NOT to baptise children. Contrariwise our Lord Christ Jesus instead rebuked the disciples for NOT letting the children come to Him (Matthew 19:13-15). So far this is what we have learned from the Holy Gospels; we are to make disciples and baptise them and then teach them, note the order in which these events are to take place.
The next thing we need to find is occurrences of baptism in the Christian Church in its early days where children may have been involved, a good way to do this is to search for ‘baptism’ and/or/ ‘household’. We find the first results in the Book of the Acts of the Apostles, commonly just called Acts;

(1) Acts 16:14-16
(2) Acts 16:31-33
And from 1 Corinthians 1:16;
Here we learn from the writings of the Apostle Paul also that a whole household could be baptised at the one time. The baptism of a whole household or a whole family is not now a common thing among Christian people. It is common that we present our children for baptism in their early years or weeks even, and that is where the problem lies with some denominations. The question here revolves on the belief that God loves us so much that He gave His only Son to be sin for us and to die on the cross so that we may be saved. This selfsame sacrificed and risen Son of God tells us; “Let the children come to me!” Again I quote the very words of the risen Christ “He who believes and is baptised will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.” Mark 16:16[iii] (http://www.christianforums.com/#_edn3). The choice is the parents’ or the carers’; do they want the child to be a member of the Church Universal i.e. the communion of saints – all those who are baptised, or do they want to wait a while and let them grow up as condemned people, it is a tremendous responsibility to leave your children outside the communion of saints, isn’t it?

Chaplain

Grace Evangelical Ministries


I acknowledge one baptism for the remission of sins. (Ephesians 4: 5; Acts 2: 38)


[1] (http://www.christianforums.com/#_ftnref1)The Holy Bible, New King James Version, (Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, Inc.) 1982.



(http://www.christianforums.com/#_ednref1) Without calling upon the Holy Trinity the baptism is invalid. By the washing of regeneration we are delivers from the bondage of sin, we have been given the strength and the power to resist sin. C.F. Titus 3:4-7.:preach:

[ii] (http://www.christianforums.com/#_ednref2) John Calvin writes; [I]“Baptism is the initiatory sign by which we are admitted to the fellowship of the Church.” Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book IV Ch. XV pg 513.
Martin Luther writes; “We are not primarily concerned whether the baptized person believes or not, for in the latter case Baptism does not become invalid. Everything depends upon the Word and commandment of God. … Even though a Jew should today come deceitfully and with an evil purpose, and we baptized him in all good faith, we should have to admit that his Baptism was valid.” Book of Concord, Large Catechism, BAPTISM pg 443, 52, 54. Note that a person can not be UN-Baptised, Baptism is valid forever; hence Christians say; “I AM Baptised”, not I was Baptised!"

[iii] (http://www.christianforums.com/#_ednref3) The Lutheran denomination states this as follows;
Our churches teach that Baptism is necessary for salvation, that the grace of God is offered through Baptism, and that children should be baptised, for being offered to God through Baptism they are received into His grace. Our churches condemn the Anabaptists who reject the Baptism of children and declare that children are saved without Baptism. The Augsburg Confession, Article IX Baptism.

[Lludmila]

Well, for a new and different perspective, I left the Nazarene church and converted to Quakerism..... we believe in water baptism but also emphasize the baptism of the Holy Spirit and generally when baptism is mentioned, the spiritual baptism is what is referred to.

[fireman1173005]

Water Baptism is a show of your faith or a pulic confession of your faith you might say. But not required for salvation. Christ was baptzed as an example for us to follow so we should.

Brian

[JoshIcedogs]

I have not got baptized yet. When i am older ill think about it.

[DougLDS]

Yes

[harrigan]

Yes, when you come of age,

[Ginger34]

I've always wondered about the people who were saved and were on their way to get baptized and maybe didn't make it to the watering hole because they died in an accident or something. Does that mean they didn't make it to Heaven, even though they were saved? Or what about people who were dying and they got saved before they died but didn't get baptized?

[JoM]

not sure...

[TCat]

It is not a requirment of salvation but it was commanded by Christ and He set the example for us to follow.

Why would a believer choose NOT to be baptized? I should think that perhaps such a person might want to spend much time in prayer and in the Word to understand what God desires us to do.

[JPPT1974]

Though not required by salvation
Still, think we need to be baptized.

[DefenderOfJesus]

Hey,

Good question, the way i see it - We all have to be like Jesus and if Jesus got baptised and told his disciples to do the same and go around and baptise people, well YES GET BAPTISED!!

:)

In His Service
Kev <>< †

[drifter5]

It is not a requirment of salvation but it was commanded by Christ and He set the example for us to follow.

Why would a believer choose NOT to be baptized? I should think that perhaps such a person might want to spend much time in prayer and in the Word to understand what God desires us to do.
i became a born- again Christian last January but am unsure whether to be baptised again. I was baptised as a teenager , thinking that i was a true christian.

[Tiki76]

I believe that baptism is showing example that our sins have been forgiven and are washed away. I do not believe that you have to be baptised.

[shadowrain777]

I see baptism as a covenant between me and God. It's me saying "i'm going to change for you" and "wash away my sins". This does nothing if i don't follow this promise in my heart, body, and soul. It's just water after all. It's all about the meaning, and what it means.

I believe in baptism as a covenant with God where the person chooses to be baptized on their own. I have no problem with baptism at birth in the sense of "blessing the child". But it's really up to the person and what they do with their life that makes them a good christian, not when and how they were baptised. Baptism is all about promise and repentance. It can be a starting over point for sinners to build a new relationship with God with an outward declaration.

[StrawberryShortcake2]

I was baptized as a baby. I've always thought that a person needs to be baptized in ordered to be saved even if he/she belives and accept Jesus as their Savior.