Just a Symbol

Baptism is much more than just a symbol.

Over the years I have written many times regarding the subject of baptism. It is no secret that we in churches of Christ preach that baptism is essential to our salvation, not just a symbol of salvation. We believe this to be plainly declared in Scripture (Acts 2:38; 22:16; etc.). Jesus was baptized (Matthew 3:16). He preached baptism (Mark 16:16). He made and baptized more disciples than John (John 4:1). Few would dispute these assertions. Yet, when these things are called to the attention of folks, they are ignored.

The common refrain today is “believe and invite Jesus into your heart.” Nothing more is demanded. Anything more, it is argued, would make salvation a matter of works, and it is asserted that work has no relationship to man’s salvation. I do not dispute the fact that we are undeserving of the sacrifice of Jesus. Nor do I dispute the fact that there is nothing we can do to save ourselves. We are wholly dependent upon Christ. However, that is not to say that we have no obligation to Him beyond the acknowledgement of His divinity. The devil would not argue with us regarding His identity, but the devil would never submit to His will. Those who claim to believe but will not obey are siding with Satan.

Further, when we teach that baptism necessitates a burial in water, we are told that we are merely dealing with symbolism, and we should not confuse the symbol with the substance.

• First, from a linguistic standpoint there is no doubt that baptism involves an immersion or submersion. Sprinkling and pouring do not satisfy the true meaning of the word.
• Second, baptism is described as a burial in the New Testament (Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:12).
• Third, in the detailed accounts of baptism in the Bible there is a going down into and a coming up out of water (Acts 8:38-39).

I do not deny the symbolism involved in baptism. Again, according to the Bible, baptism is a symbol of the death and burial of the old man and the resurrection of the new man in Christ (Romans 6:3-14). How can this be symbolized by sprinkling or pouring a few drops of water on someone’s head? That does not constitute a burial or a resurrection! And, if it is all a matter of symbolism, why not drop the water altogether? Surely, if a few drops are sufficient to satisfy the symbolism, can it not be completely eliminated? Some have already done so!

If I have misrepresented what the Bible teaches, then it should be ignored. But, if the truth on this subject has been presented, and I am convinced that it has, ignoring it jeopardizes our hope of heaven.

Salvation:  Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully