Few topics in Christian theology generate as much discussion as baptism and salvation. Some churches teach that baptism is necessary for salvation, while others (like Olney Baptist Church) say it is an important step of obedience but not a requirement for salvation itself.
Which view is correct?
Let’s explore this topic by examining key Scripture passages and understanding the perspectives involved.
Supporters of the view that baptism is necessary for salvation often reference the following verses:
- Mark 16:16 (KJV) – “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” This verse appears to link belief and baptism closely with salvation.
- John 3:5 (KJV) – “Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” Some interpret “born of water” as a reference to baptism, suggesting its necessity for entering God’s kingdom.
- Acts 22:16 (KJV) – “And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” Here, baptism is associated with the washing away of sins.
- 1 Peter 3:21 (KJV) – “The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.” Some believe Peter affirms that baptism now saves us.
Based in part on the preceding verses, many Christian traditions, including Roman Catholicism, Lutheranism, and Oneness Pentecostalism, teach that baptism plays a crucial role in the salvation process. They interpret the above passages, among others, to mean that baptism is a means through which God imparts saving grace.
In contrast, most evangelical traditions and virtually all Baptist churches (like Olney Baptist Church) emphasize that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ alone, apart from any works or rituals, including baptism. Two of the key passages supporting this view include:
- John 3:16 (KJV) – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
- John 5:24 (KJV) – “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.”
- Galatians 2:16 (KJV) – “Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.”
- Ephesians 2:8-9 (KJV) – “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
- Romans 10:9 (KJV) – “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.”
Evangelicals interpret passages like Mark 16:16 and John 3:5 (see the first list of verses) in light of the broader biblical teaching that emphasizes faith as the means of receiving God’s grace. While some may consider this a “dodge” or “weaseling out” of verses that seem to suggest baptism is required, I remind you that Jesus did command baptism –and baptism was indeed expected of those who converted to Christ. Thus, it makes sense that, in some contexts, the call to salvation would be in the same sentence as the call to identify oneself with Christ immediately thereafter.
As for John 3:5, Jesus’ reference to being “born of water” has to be read in the context of the overall conversation with Nicodemus. The latter has just asked about entering back into his mother’s womb. This was asked in response to Jesus’ call to be “born again.” So, being “born of water” is a reference to biological birth — you know, how a woman’s water breaks before the baby comes? Basic Biology 101.
But if you’re still not convinced… answer me this: Was the thief on the cross in Luke 23 given a water baptism before his death? The answer is clearly no. And my question then is… where is he now?
None of this is to suggest that baptism is unimportant. Jesus commands it. Those who are saved should want to follow Christ’s command (see Matthew 28:18-20) and be identified with Him (see Romans 6:3-5).
Not only that, but speaking personally…conducting baptisms is one of the greatest joys in pastoral ministry. I love being a part of this special moment in believers’ lives. But getting immersed in water is not the means of salvation. Jesus is.
Baptism, while deeply meaningful and commanded by Christ, is not the means by which salvation is imparted but rather a response to the salvation we receive in Christ.
Thank you for Reading!
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