Bible Truths: Baptism!

Eugene L. Conger

Jesus commanded His apostles to “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:” Matthew 28:19 Also, the Lord, according to Mark 16:16, said, “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.” On the day of Pentecost, the apostle Peter commanded individuals to “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins …” Acts 2:38 Yet, men today deny the importance of baptism in the salvation of the soul. Most religious teachers do not believe what Jesus or the apostles taught about baptism. Not only do they deny its importance in saving souls, but they even say that baptism is not a burial in water, but simply a pouring of water on the head, or perhaps sprinkling some water on the head.

“Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death.” Romans 6:4 “Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.” Colossians 2:12 Paul affirms that baptism is a burial, yet men today deny this plain, positive teaching of God’s word.

Let us note what some religious men have said in the past.

• John Calvin (Presbyterian): “The word baptize signifies to immerse. It is certain that immersion was the practice of the primitive church.”

• Martin Luther (Lutheran): “Baptism is a Greek word and may be translated immerse. I would have those who are to be baptized to be altogether dipped.”

• John Wesley (Methodist): “Buried with Him in baptism – alluding to the ancient manner of baptizing by immersion.”

Is it not strange that the founders of many of the present day denominations believed in baptism by immersion, yet their followers do not?

The apostle Peter declares in 1 Peter 3:21 that “Baptism doth also now save us.” Are you willing to believe your preacher, or an inspired man of God? -P.O. Box 427, Elizabeth, WV 26143-0427.

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