The Lord’s Command

One of the clearest statements made by the Lord is found in Mark 16:16. Jesus said: “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” In spite of that clear command from Christ, many persist in denying the importance of baptism. Baptism is said to play no part in a person’s salvation. It is argued that one need not be baptized to go to heaven. This argument is made even though Jesus made faith and baptism prerequisites to salvation.

It is sometimes argued that because Jesus did not say, “He that believeth not and is not baptized shall be damned,” baptism is not a necessary ingredient in man’s salvation. Be assured the Lord expressed himself clearly. He knew that if a man truly believed he would not refuse baptism, and if he did not believe he would not desire baptism. One who rejects the command to believe and be baptized stands in rebellion to the authority of God’s only begotten Son. We cannot be saved and at the same time reject his commands (John 12:48). Not one single argument against the necessity of baptism is found in the New Testament, but there are many for it!

Someone will usually charge that if baptism is essential to salvation, then salvation becomes a matter of works. Such could not be further from the truth. Baptism is the logical expression of one’s faith. Through it (baptism) one is brought into Christ (Galatians 3:27). It is in no way meritorious! It is a loving response to the commands of a loving Savior. “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.” Jesus said it! Do you believe it? Will you obey it?

— Roger