In The Likeness

Thanks to Al Parr, working with the Saline Church of Christ, for the content of this post.

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Romans 6:5 – “For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection“

Therefore, those baptized for another reason – in another likeness – are not in the likeness of His resurrection – are not walking in newness of life (Romans 6:4), and have not crucified the old man (Romans 6:6), and are neither dead unto sin, nor alive unto God (Romans 6:11). The likeness of the death and the likeness of the resurrection are linked.

Sincere people often ask, and several have asked on FaceBook pages, “even though I was immersed in that other church, do I need to be immersed again?” Think on this, and then answer the question. Salvation is not based on immersion; it is the result of transforming conversion:

• When one is baptized because he believes (Mark 16:16)
• When he is baptized because he knows that is what God requires for his salvation (1 Peter 3:21)
• When he is baptized as a willing and submissive response to the authority of Jesus (Matthew 28:19)

When baptism is based on these things, one is saved by the grace of God, and not by his own choices and actions (Ephesians 2:8-9).  Think on these things and determine your answer about being immersed again.

“IF we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, (THEN) we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection.” Did you only give your body to the water, or did you give your heart to Jesus Christ?

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Al Parr works Confirming the Churches and preaches at the Saline Church of Christ
7300 East Michigan Avenue
Saline, MI 48176

734-429-4319