Historical Posts
Can Baptism Be Sprinkling, Pouring, or Dipping?
According to Webster’s Dictionary, baptism is “a Christian sacrament marked by ritual use of water and admitting the recipient to the Christian community.”
Most denominations teach that baptism may be administered either by sprinkling water on one’s head, by pouring water over one’s head, or by dipping one’s entire body in water. Some denominations allow the one being baptized to select which mode of baptism he would like to experience, with the understanding that it really does not matter how one is baptized, in the first place.
But, is it really the case that the mode of baptism does not matter?
- What does the Bible have to say about this issue?
- How were people baptized in the ancient church?
- Did the apostles give people a choice?
The New Testament tells us all about baptism
The fact of the matter is that the Scriptures teach that there is only “one baptism,” which is recognized by the Lord, as valid (Ephesians 4:5). The New Testament tells us all about baptism, but it only speaks of one form of baptism. In Matthew 3:13-17, we find that, in the account of Jesus’ own baptism, the Lord, “when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water.” For Jesus to come up out of the water, He must have gone down into the water. This account depicts Jesus’ baptism as being by immersion in water. In Acts 8:27-40, in the account of the conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch, we find that “they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.” The text goes on to say that they both came back up out of the water, and the eunuch went on his way. Again, baptism is depicted as immersion in water.
Buried with him in baptism
Also, it is worth noticing that, in Romans 6:4 and in Colossians 2:12, the text says that we are “buried with him in baptism.” The concept of baptism as a burial in water shows that baptism is done by dipping, plunging, or submerging someone in water. Just as you cannot bury someone with a sprinkling of dirt, or with a handful of dirt, you cannot baptize someone with a sprinkling or a handful of water.
There are many other proofs, which show that baptism is immersion in water. If you have been baptized, was it by immersion in water, or by some other means? According to the Scriptures, there is only one way to be baptized under the Law of Christ. Have you really been baptized?
Baptism: the Gateway into the Church
“He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved…” – Mark 16:16
Content by Russell Kline
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Decision Tree – Be Baptized for Remission of Sin
(Did you jump into the middle of this? Please start at the beginning of the decision tree.)
Even though you have now repented of your sin, the guilt of your past sin remains and must be dealt with. It is not something that you can do for yourself, it is something you must allow God to do for you.
God sent Jesus to be the propitiation, or atoning sacrifice, for our sins (1 John 4:9-10).
Peter spoke, in Acts 2:29-37, to people with your current understanding:
- There is a God
- They had sinned
- They asked, “what shall we do?”
Peter answered, In Acts 2:38, “repent and be baptized… for the remission of sins.”
Baptism is the death and burial of our sinful self followed by the rising of our new self, reconciled to God (Romans 6:3-11). This is what the Ethiopian did in Acts 8:35-39 when he went down into the water, then came out of the water.
Will you be baptized and allow God to wash away your sins with the blood of Christ?
- Be baptized, immersed in water, for the purpose of having your sins forgiven.
- Refuse to follow God’s instruction.
More about baptism:
- Baptism (with audio)
- How Do I Know I’m Ready (with audio)
- Can Baptism be Sprinkling, Pouring or Dipping
- Baptism
Content by Zachary Van Tassel
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Being Baptized – How Do I Know I’m Ready? – audio
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Introduction
1. “How do I know when I’m ready to be baptized?”
2. I appreciate this question!
3. All too often, I am afraid that we are guilty of simply telling people that they need to be baptized and not really explaining to them that baptism is merely a part of God’s plan to save man.
4. The one who asks this question realizes:
a. That baptism is important.
b. That baptism is not something to be done on a whim.
c. That one needs to be PREPARED to be baptized.
5. How do we know when we are ready?
6. All of the preparation is mental.
Body
YOU ARE READY TO BE BAPTIZED WHEN…
I. YOU UNDERSTAND SIN AND IT’S CONSEQUENCES…
A. A question to ask someone who says that they want to be baptized…
1. “If you were to die right now, before you were baptized, would you go to heaven or hell?”
2. If the person answers that they believe that they would go to heaven, then that person does not yet understand sin or the purpose of baptism.
B. Before one is a scriptural candidate for baptism, he must realize that he is lost!
1. One must understand what sin is.
a) All mankind lives under God’s Law.
Galatians 6:2. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
b) Sin is lawlessness or disobeying God’s law.
1 John 3:4. Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness.
c) There are sins of commission, omission, and ignorance.
2. Sin separates a person from God.
a) Genesis 2:17. But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.
b) Romans 6:23. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
c) Isaiah 59:1-2. Behold, the LORD’s hand is not shortened, That it cannot save; Nor His ear heavy, That it cannot hear. But your iniquities have separated you from your God; And your sins have hidden His face from you, So that He will not hear.
C. Unremitted sin will cause us to be eternally separated from God.
1. Revelation 14:11-13. And the smoke of their torment ascends forever and ever; and they have no rest day or night, who worship the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name.” Here is the patience of the saints; here are those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. Then I heard a voice from heaven saying to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labors, and their works follow them.”
2. Revelation 20:13-15. The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.
And…
II. YOU UNDERSTAND WHO JESUS WAS…
A. There has always been confusion and disagreement on the identity of Jesus.
Matthew 16:13-16. When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, saying, “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?” So they said, “Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
B. Without a proper understanding of who Jesus was, one can not be scripturally baptized.
C. Our salvation depends, in part, on our perception of Jesus.
John 8:23-24. And He said to them, “You are from beneath; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.”
1. What does it mean t believe that Jesus is the “I AM.”
2. If we acknowledge Jesus as the “I AM” we:
a) Are acknowledging Him as part of the Godhead.
Exodus 3:14. And God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” And He said, “Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.’”
b) Are acknowledging His pre-existence.
John 8:56-58. Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My day, and he saw it and was glad.” Then the Jews said to Him, “You are not yet fifty years old, and have You seen Abraham?” Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.”
c) Are acknowledging His authority.
Matthew 28:18. And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.
D. Belief alone is not sufficient to save.
James 2:19. You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble!
And…
III. YOU UNDERSTAND REPENTANCE…
A. Repentance is also necessary to salvation. Luke 13:3. I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.
B. But what is repentance?
1. Examples of repentance
Matthew 21:28-31. “But what do you think? A man had two sons, and he came to the first and said, ‘Son, go, work today in my vineyard.’ He answered and said, ‘I will not,’ but afterward he regretted it and went. Then he came to the second and said likewise. And he answered and said, ‘I go, sir,’ but he did not go. Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said to Him, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that tax collectors and harlots enter the kingdom of God before you.
2 Corinthians 7:10-11. For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. For observe this very thing, that you sorrowed in a godly manner: What diligence it produced in you, what clearing of yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what vehement desire, what zeal, what vindication! In all things you proved yourselves to be clear in this matter.
2. Repentance is a change in mind (brought on by godly sorrow) that leads to a change in action.
C. People must be willing to repent of sin in their lives before they are ready to be baptized.
1. If one is a thief, he must quit being a thief.
2. If one is a liar, he must quit being a liar.
3. If one is an adulterer, he must quit being an adulterer.
And…
IV. YOU UNDERSTAND CONFESSION…
A. Jesus says we must confess Him before men.
Matthew 10:32. Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven.
B. Paul said that confession is made to salvation.
Romans 10:9-10. That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
C. It is called the good confession.
1 Timothy 6:12-13. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. I urge you in the sight of God who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus who witnessed the good confession before Pontius Pilate
1. The confession that Jesus made before Pilate was that He was the Son of God.
2. John 18:36-37. Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here.” Pilate therefore said to Him, “Are You a king then?” Jesus answered, “You say rightly that I am a king. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.”
D. Without this confession, one is not ready to be baptized.
Acts 8:36-37. Now as they went down the road, they came to some water. And the eunuch said, “See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?” Then Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.” And he answered and said, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.”
And…
V. YOU UNDERSTAND THE PURPOSE OF BAPTISM.
A. Without a proper understanding of the purpose, baptism is useless.
B. What is the purpose of baptism?
1. Remission of sins.
Acts 2:38. 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.
2. Washes away sins.
Acts 22:16. And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.’
3. Saves us.
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
4. Puts us into Christ.
Galatians 3:27. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
5. Puts us into the body.
1 Corinthians 12:13. For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free—
Conclusion
1. When are you ready to be baptized?
2. When you understand sin and its consequences in your life.
3. When you understand who Jesus was and what He did for you.
4. When you are willing to repent of sin in your life.
5. When you are willing to confess Jesus.
6. When you understand the purpose of baptism.
Delivered on: December 18, 2011. Streetsboro.
Content by Ralph Price
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Baptism Questions
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Archive
Besides repent, what did Peter ask many to do on Pentecost?
Be baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38).
Is baptism essential for salvation?
Jesus said those that “believe and are baptized shall be saved” (Mark 16:16), and Peter said “baptism does also now save us” (1 Peter 3:21).
How much water did John need to baptize with?
He baptized where there was much water (John 3:23).
How much water was the Ethiopian eunuch baptized with?
There needed enough water for both he and Philip to go down into, baptize, and come up out of (Acts 8:26-39).
What did baptism do for Saul of Tarsus?
This showed him calling on the name of the Lord, and washed away his sins (Acts 22:16; see also Romans 10:13-17).
How does baptism affect one’s relationship to Christ?
Baptism puts us into Christ (Galatians 3:27), where all spiritual blessings are (Ephesians 1:3).
How does baptism relate to the gospel?
The three facts of the gospel are Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). When one is baptized, he is dead to sin, buried with Christ in baptism, and raised to walk a new life (Romans 6:1-6).
May one be rebaptized?
If the previous baptism did not conform to the process, reason, or any other related thing of the Scriptures, yes! After all, those baptized under John’s baptism were rebaptized in the name of Christ to receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 19:1-5).
What does the Lord do as one is baptized?
Since baptism saves us, the Lord adds the saved to His church (Acts 2:47). There is one body, the church, and there is one baptism into that church by one Spirit (Ephesians 1:22-23; 4:4-6; 1 Corinthians 12:12-13).
Content by Richard Dillon
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Christ and the Church – Ephesians 5:22-32
Text: Ephesians 5:22-32
There is one church, which is the same as one body (Ephesians 5:22)
Christ is the head of that one body, His church (Colossians 1:18; Ephesians 1:22,23; 4:4-6).
Christ loved the church and gave Himself for it (Ephesians 5:25)
His blood that was shed on the cross purchased His church (Acts 20:28).
The church is sanctified and cleansed by washing of water by the word (Ephesians 5:26)
Baptism is done in water (Acts 8:26-39; 2:36-42; 22:16; Romans 6:4; John 3:23).
Jesus told Nicodemus one must be born of water and the Spirit in order to enter the kingdom of heaven (John 3:5).
Jesus gave Peter keys to the kingdom (Matthew 16:19), the same as the body or church. Later, Peter unlocked the kingdom by preaching the gospel at Pentecost (Acts 2). About 3,000 souls were baptized that day, and the Lord added them to His church (Acts 2:38; Matthew 16:16-18).
The church is presented glorious, and without spot, wrinkle, or any such thing (Ephesians 5:27)
It is done this way through the blood of Christ! Through shedding of His blood, we have the remission of sins (Hebrews 9:22; 10:22). As the church is also holy, we must be holy for God is holy (Ephesians 1:4; 1 Peter 1:15-16; Colossians 1:22-23).
• The Lord nourishes and cherishes His church (Ephesians 5:29)
• Christians are members of His body (Ephesians 5:30; Romans 12:4-5)
• Paul claims it to be a great mystery, but speaks concerning Christ and the church (Ephesians 5:32)
• Have you been baptized and allowed God to add you to the Church (Acts 2:47)?
Content by Richard Dillon
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A New Life
Jesus Christ can provide a fresh start
No matter what may haunt a man from his past, Jesus Christ can provide a fresh start, a clean slate, a new beginning. That’s really what conversion is all about. When a man looks to Jesus as savior, surrenders his will to the will of Christ, repents and is born again, he really is given a new life.
We should walk in newness of life
Paul wrote to the Christians at Rome: “Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin” (Romans 6:3-6).
Baptism marks a new beginning or new birth for a Christian
The old life with all its sin is renounced. A new life begins. It is a life patterned after Jesus. We are no longer controlled by the devil. We have become children of God. We must behave like God’s children. We are specifically charged to put off the old man with his corrupt deeds and put on a new man made in the image of the Creator (Colossians 3:9). We must rid our lives of all that is wicked and vile, and fill the void with what is good.
We must become what god wants us to be
The problem is that many find the promises of Jesus very appealing, but are unwilling to accept his demands. They want the blessings of a relationship with Christ without any of the responsibilities. That’s not possible. Yes, there is forgiveness, but there must also be reformation. We must become what God wants us to be. That’s why he gives us a fresh start, a new beginning, that we might become a new man. “Therefore if any man is in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away: behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Would you like to be a new man?
Read your Bible. Believe what it says. Repent of your sins. Confess the precious name of Jesus. Be baptized! Christ will add you to his church, and you can become the person he wants you to be.
–Roger
SEPTEMBER 18, 2011
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Baptism
Purpose: Baptism is for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38)
Even though one must repent of sins (Luke 13:3,5), the sins are not removed until one is baptized.
Ananias told Saul to “arise and be baptized to wash away his sins (Acts 22:16).”
Baptism washes the entire body to cleanse its conscience before God (1 Corinthians 6:11; Ephesians 5:26; Hebrews 10:22).
Demonstrated: Enough water must be used to wash sins away.
Philip went down into the water with the Ethiopian eunuch, baptized him, and came up out of the water (Acts 8:36-39).
Sprinkling or pouring is not found in the Bible; rather, more water is needed to immerse someone as Philip did the Ethiopian eunuch. John baptized where there was much water (John 3:23).
Symbolic: Why is much water needed to immerse a new convert?
Jesus died according to the Scriptures, was buried, and rose again the 3rd day according to the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:3,4).
Likewise, a person dies to sin, is buried with Christ in baptism, and raised to walk in newness of life (Romans 6:1-6).
When the person is raised again, the body of sin is destroyed! What happens to sin?
It is all washed away and nailed to the cross with Christ (Colossians 2:12-14).
Thus, we are forgiven and the sacrifice of Christ is made of full effect.
Benefits: What happens when one is baptized into Christ?
He receives the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38; Acts 9:17-18). This is also the only way one is placed in Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:27).
Why does one want to be in Christ? Because, that is where all spiritual blessings are: the redemption and forgiveness of sins, the hope of eternal life, the fellowship with God and others; and many more things found nowhere else (Ephesians 1:3ff.).
Essential: Is baptism then really necessary?
Consider the words of Jesus Himself: “He who believes and is baptized will be saved” (Mark 16:16).
Peter also said in 1 Peter 3:21, “there is also an antitype which now saves us, namely baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God…).”
Have you been baptized?
Content by Richard Dillon
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Baptism – audio
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Introduction
1. Baptism (immersion) will not forgive, save, or put into Christ – one who is not a believer
2. What does the Bible have to say about baptism?
Body
I. WHAT IS NEW TESTAMENT BAPTISM?
1. New Testament Bible Baptism – Always Immersion!
a. John 3:23
b. Matthew 3:16
c. Acts 8:38
d. Romans 6:4
e. Colossians 2:12
2. New Testament Bible Baptism – Always For the Believer
a. John 1:12
b. Mark 16:16
c. Acts 2:41
d. Acts 8:12
II. WHAT WILL IT DO?
1. Wash away your sins! – Acts 22:16; Acts 2:38
2. Cloth you in Christ! – Galatians 3:26-27
3. Circumcise your heart! – Colossians 2:11-12
4. Save you! – 1 Peter 3:21
III. WHAT WILL IT NOT DO?
1. Guarantee eternal life! – 2 Peter 3:17; Galatians 5:4; 1 Corinthians 10:12; Hebrews 6:4-6
2. Solve all of life’s problems:
a. Marriage problems, money worries, bad habits, all will remain after baptism
b. Many have gone to baptism thinking that all of this will go away!
c. Life’s problems will still exist after baptism!
d. However one’s attitude towards these problems should change – Colossians 3:2; Romans 8:28; Philippians 4:13
3. Remove temptations in fact, temptations may increase! – Matthew 4:1; James 1:2; 1 Peter 1:6; 2 Peter 2:9
Conclusion
1. Baptism (immersion) will not forgive, save, or put into Christ – one who is not a believer!
2. Acts 3:19
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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How Do People Respond to the Gospel? Acts 02:41-42
Text: Acts 2:41-42
Lesson Aims
- For the Christian to gain knowledge of how differently people will respond to the gospel.
- To be prepared with joy, to be set for the defense of the gospel of Jesus Christ – 1 Peter 3:15
- Gain understanding that the Word of God is a powerful force and when it is proclaimed and you will have various responses to it – Hebrews 4:12
Read These Lesson Texts
ACTS 4:1-4 (PRIESTS, CAPTAIN OF TEMPLE, SADDUCEES & PEOPLE);
ACTS 13:4-12 (SERGIUS PAULUS); ACTS 26:1-29 (PAUL, FESTUS, AGRIPPA,)
(1) Grieved/Believed
(2) False prophet Bar-jesus not happy / deputy believed
(3) Paul obeyed, Festus didn’t believe the message of Paul, King Agippa almost persuade to be a Christian.
How Do People Respond When Hearing the Message of Salvation?
READ PARABLE OF SOWER EXPLANATION, MATTHEW 13:18-23
(SEED RECEIVED BY THE WAY SIDE)
Some hear the Word of God, may not understand it fully, or the devil plants thoughts of doubt and disbelief in one’s mind of What God says through traditions, worldly values, or false doctrine.
Others hear the Word of God and receive it with joy but they are not rooted and grounded enough in the Word of God to grow properly. Ass a result, when it is time to put your faith in God into action they fall away through trials and suffering.
(SEED RECEIVED IN STONY PLACES)
In (Acts 5:1-11), Ananias and Sapphira are examples of Christians who were not rooted and grounded in the truth. Therefore they followed temptation and paid the price.
A number of people hear the Word of God, yet their love for money and the world causes them to be with odds with God – James 4:4.
(SEED RECEIVED AMONG THORNS)
These worldly vises choke the Word of God – Matthew 19:23-26; I Timothy 6:6-10
(SEED RECEIVED IN GOOD GROUND)
There will be some people who receive and obey the Word of God and will endure temptations to the end. As a result, they will obtain the crown of life that God will give them (James 1:12). (SEED RECEIVED IN GOOD GROUND)
How Much Effort?
How hard is it to become a Christian, according to the New Testament pattern?
Compare this to becoming a denominational member!
How Do People Respond…
Do people accept that repentance and baptism are necessary elements of accepting God’s salvation?
Repenting of your sins is not an easy task to embark on but is necessary. If you want to have a right relationship with God and draw closer to being saved, you must be willing to repent – Acts 17:30-31; Luke 13:3; Acts 2:38
Repentance signifies to change one’s mind or purpose – 2 Corinthians 7:9-10
This change of mind occurs when you learn that your behavior or actions are contrary to God’s Word. As a result, you work at aligning your life to God’s standard to the best of your ability. Therefore, your change of thoughts leads to changes of action – Acts 26:9-11
What is the common response to the necessity of repentance in God’s plan of salvation?
Why are people not willing to lose their life to save it? – Mark 8:34-37
Baptism is required
Baptism is necessary for your salvation just as the other works of faith are necessary for salvation such as:
– Confession of Jesus as the Son of God (Matthew 10:32-33; Romans 10:9-10)
– Hearing the gospel message (Romans 10:17)
– Repenting of past sins (Luke 13:3)
– Having faith in God (Hebrews 11:6)
How do people respond to the Word of God when it clearly says baptism is one of the necessary components for one’s salvation?
See Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:16; Acts 2:28; Acts 22:16; I Peter 3:21, plus all of the 9 examples of conversion in the book of acts include baptism!
Metanoeo (verb): “to perceive afterwards” (meta, “after,” implying “change,” noeo, “to perceive;”
2 Corinthians 7:10 …Godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation
Baptizo (verb): “to dip repeatedly, to immerse, to submerge (of vessels sunk) to cleanse by dipping or submerging, to wash, to make clean with water, to wash one’s self, bathe to overwhelm”
Romans 6:1-4
Notice that all nine of these conversions recorded in Acts included Baptism
1. Pentecost – Acts 2:36-39
2. The Samaritians – Acts 8:5-13
3. The Ethiopian Eunuch – Acts 8:26-40
4. Saul of Tarsus – Acts 9:1-22; Acts 22:3-16
5. Cornelius – Acts 10:1-48
6. Lydia – Acts 16:13-15
7. Philippian Jailer – Acts 16:22-34
8. The Corinthians – Acts 18:1-8
9. The Ephesians – Acts 19:1-5
Content by Harry (Andy) Anderson Jr.Return to the Home Page
Mark 16:15-16 Five Views of Salvation – powerpoint
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Mark-16-15-16-Five-Views-of-Salvation.pdf
Mark-16-15-16-Five-Views-of-Salvation.pptx
Text: Mark 16:15-16
Introduction
1. In Mark’s account of the Great Commission, Jesus’ words are clear and simple
a. He wanted the gospel proclaimed to everyone – Mark 16:15
b. These who believe and are baptized will be saved – Mark 16:16
c. Those who do not believe will be condemned
2. Even so, there are at least five diverse views regarding salvation:
a. One view takes Jesus’ words at face value
b. Four other views can be summarized by slightly altering the words of Jesus
Body
I. HE WHO BELIEVES AND IS BAPTIZED WILL NOT BE SAVED
A. THIS VIEW HELD BY TWO SEPARATE GROUPS
1. Atheists who do not believe in God, heaven or hell, or salvation of any kind
2. All who do not believe in Jesus:
a. Most Jews, Muslims, Hindus, etc. – who believe in God (or gods)
b. But who do not believe that salvation is to be found in Jesus
B. THIS VIEW CONTRADICTS THE BIBLE
1. There is a God who offers salvation (contrary to the views of atheists) – 1 Timothy 2:3-4
2. Salvation does come through Jesus, and through Him only – 1 Timothy 2:5-6; John 14:6
C. I doubt any present (at the time this was presented) actually hold to this view, but many people do, and this begins to illustrate how some are willing to deny the plain statement of Jesus.
II. HE WHO DOES NOT BELIEVE AND IS NOT BAPTIZED WILL BE SAVED
A. THIS VIEW HELD BY UNIVERSALISTS
1. Who believe that God will save everyone eventually
2. To support their view, they will isolate some verses like 1 Timothy 2:6
B. THIS VIEW CONTRADICTS THE BIBLE
1. Jesus Himself told that there would be few who would be saved – Matthew 7:13-14
2. Paul warned of those who would not be saved, but face the wrath of God – Ephesians 5:5-6
C. Most Bible-believing, professing Christians would not accept the two views covered thus far
III. HE WHO DOES NOT BELIEVE AND IS BAPTIZED WILL BE SAVED
A. THIS VIEW HELD BY MOST WHO PRACTICE INFANT BAPTISM
1. By “baptizing” (actually sprinkling, not immersing) infants incapable of faith
a. They (esp. Catholics) indicate that faith is not essential to salvation
b. Some (esp. Lutherans) try to get around this by saying that God imparts saving faith to the infant so baptism can still save
2. By sprinkling or pouring instead of immersion, they also indicate Jesus did not mean what He said
B. THIS VIEW CONTRADICTS THE BIBLE
1. Faith is a necessary prerequisite
a. For baptism – Acts 8:35-37
b. For salvation – Romans 10:9-10
2. Sprinkling or pouring is NOT Bible baptism
a. The Greek word used in the Bible is “baptizo”, and it means “to immerse”
b. This is why baptism is described in the Bible as a “burial” – Romans 6:3-4; Colossians 2:12
c. Sprinkling or pouring was substituted in the place of baptism (immersion) hundreds of years after Christ and His apostles
d. By keeping the “tradition of men” by sprinkling or pouring, we fail to keep the command of God” concerning baptism and Jesus’ condemnation of displacing God’s commands with traditions of men – Matthew 15:3-9
3. Baptizing infants is without scriptural precedent
a. There are no commands or examples of infant baptism
b. Since the prerequisites of faith (Mark 16:16; Acts 8:37) and repentance (Acts 2:38; Acts 17:30) are beyond the infant’s capability, they are not suitable candidates for baptism
4. Most who hold to the view of sprinkling infants are honest and sincere. Even so, they are just as guilty of teaching a view of salvation different from Jesus as are atheists, many Jews, Muslims, Hindus, and universalists.
IV. HE WHO BELIEVES AND IS NOT BAPTIZED WILL BE SAVED
A. THIS VIEW HELD BY THOSE WHO BELIEVE IN FAITH ONLY
1. That one is saved before baptism, that baptism is not essential to salvation
2. A view is held for all practical purposes by most evangelical denominations
B. THIS VIEW CONTRADICTS THE BIBLE
1. For faith “alone” cannot save
a. As declared by Jesus – Matthew 7:21; Luke 6:46
b. As taught by His apostles – Romans 6:17-18; Hebrews 5:9; James 2:14; James 2:17; James 2:20; James 2:24; James 2:26; 1 Peter 1:22
2. For baptism is essential to salvation
a. According to Jesus – John 3:5; Mark 16:16; Matthew 28:18-20
b. According to His apostles – Acts 2:38; 22:16; Colossians 2:12-13; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 3:21
C. Most who hold this view are sincere, and would not knowingly twisting the words of Jesus. I think of such people as Paul thought of his brethren in the flesh – Romans 10:1-3
V. HE WHO BELIEVES AND IS BAPTIZED WILL BE SAVED
A. THIS VIEW TAKES JESUS’ WORDS AT FACE VALUE
1. No explanations are necessary
2. Jesus says what He means, and means what He says
B. THIS VIEW IS CLEARLY WHAT THE BIBLE TEACHES
1. That one must “believe” – Acts 8:36-37
2. That one must be “baptized” to enjoy the forgiveness of sins – Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16
Conclusion
1. Which one of the five views of salvation do you hold to…?
a. He who believes and is baptized “will not” be saved?
b. He who “does not believe” and “is not baptized” will be saved?
c. He who “does not believe” and “is baptized” will be saved?
d. He who believes and “is not baptized” will be saved?
e. He who believes and is baptized will be saved?
f. It should be clear there is only view which is in harmony with Jesus’ words
2. Just as important, with which of these views is your life consistent…?
a. One may profess the fifth view
1) But act as though they believed the second view
2) How? By never confessing faith in Christ and being baptized!
b. One may profess the fifth view
1) But act as though they believed the third view
2) How? For though they may have been “baptized”, they are not living the life of faith required of one in Jesus!
c. One may profess the fifth view
1) But act as though they believed the fourth view
2) How? For while believing in Jesus, they have never submitted to being baptized!
3. Only those who come to Jesus in faith and act in harmony with His teachings can have the assurance of salvation. The words of Jesus and His apostles are clear:
“And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.” – Mark 16:15-16
“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.'” – Acts 2:38
“And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” – Acts 22:16
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Micah 06:06-08 What Does Jesus Require of You? audio
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Text: Micah 6:6-8
Introduction
1. The prophet Micah raises and answers a question – Micah 6:6-8
a. What does the Lord require of you?
b. To do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God
2. In this lesson, I would like to rephrase and answer the question
a. What does Jesus require of you?
b. Letting the words of Jesus Himself to answer
Body
I. TO REPENT OF SIN – Luke 24:46-47
A. THE COMMAND TO REPENT OF SIN
1. Was proclaimed by Jesus during His ministry – Matthew 4:17; Luke 13:3,5
2. Was preached by His apostles as they fulfilled His commission – Acts 3:19; 17:30-31
3. Jesus clearly requires people to repent!
B. WHAT IT MEANS TO REPENT
1. Repent: primarily, to change one’s mind – BDAG
2. To change one’s way of life as the result of a complete change of thought and attitude with regard to sin and righteousness – Louw Nida
3. A decision prompted by godly sorrow for one’s sins – 2 Corinthians 7:9-10
4. A decision demonstrated by fervent change in conduct – 2 Corinthians 7:11
5. Have you expressed godly sorrow for your sin, with a fervent desire to change?
II. TO BELIEVE AND BE BAPTIZED – MK 16:15-16
A. THE COMMAND TO BELIEVE AND BE BAPTIZED
1. The command to believe is foundational to the gospel message-Jn 3:16; 8:24; 20:30-31
2. Likewise the command to be baptized – Acts 2:38; 10:48; 22:16
3. Jesus clearly requires people to believe and be baptized!
B. WHAT IT MEANS TO BELIEVE AND BE BAPTIZED
1. To place your faith in Jesus, that He died for your sins – John 1:29
2. To place your faith in God, that in baptism He will raise you together with Christ, having forgiven you of your sins – Colossians 2:11-13; Romans 6:3-7
3. Consider the example of the Ethiopian eunuch – Acts 8:35-38
4. Have you placed your trust in Jesus, dying with Him to sin in baptism and rising with Him from baptism to a new life?
III. TO BECOME HIS DISCIPLE – Matthew 28:18-20
A. THE COMMAND TO BECOME HIS DISCIPLE
1. Was expressed earlier as a tender invitation – Matthew 11:28-30
2. Begins with the act of baptism mentioned before – Matthew 28:19
3. Jesus clearly requires people to become His disciples!
B. WHAT IT MEANS TO BE HIS DISCIPLE
1. Disciple: one who engages in learning through instruction from another, pupil, apprentice – BDAG
2. A disciple fully trained will be like his teacher – Luke 6:40
3. It requires abiding in Jesus’ words, loving one another, bearing fruit – John 8:31; 13:35
4. It requires denying self, forsaking all – Luke 14:26,33
5. Have you made the commitment to follow and learn from Jesus as His disciple?
IV. TO BE FAITHFUL UNTIL DEATH – Revelation 2:10
A. THE COMMAND TO BE FAITHFUL UNTIL DEATH
1. Is necessary because Jesus knew some would fall away – Luke 8:13-14
2. Is necessary because one can develop a heart of unbelief – Hebrews 3:12-14
3. Jesus clearly requires people to remain faithful as His disciples!
B. WHAT IT MEANS TO REMAIN FAITHFUL
1. To retain our “first love” – Revelation 2:4
2. To reject all false doctrines – Revelation 2:14-15
3. To maintain our zeal for the Lord – Revelation 3:15-16
4. Have you maintained that initial love and zeal you had when you became a Christian?
V. TO REPENT IF NECESSARY
A. THE NEED TO REPENT AS CHRISTIANS
1. Repeated by Jesus time and again – Revelation 2:5,16; 3:3,19
2. Expressed by Paul writing to the church at <a target=”_blank” href=”http://www.biblemap.org/#Corinth”>Corinth</a> – 2 Corinthians 12:20-21
3. Jesus clearly requires His disciples to repent when necessary!
B. WHAT IT MEANS TO REPENT
1. What we said before: a decision prompted by godly sorrow, demonstrated by fervent change
2. For the Christian it includes prayer, confessing one’s sin – Acts 8:22; 1 John 1:9
3. If your faith and service ever wavered, have you repented with fervent zeal?
Conclusion
1. In our lesson we have come full circle (repent-repent).
a. Jesus wants every lost soul to repent and obey the gospel in faith and baptism
b. Jesus wants every wayward disciple to repent and be zealous in their service to Him
2. Have you done what Jesus requires of you…?
a. If you need to repent and obey the gospel, let us assist you!
b. If you need to repent and return to the Lord, let us pray with you!
3. Surely the salvation of your soul and committed discipleship is what Jesus requires of you today…!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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