Christians: The thief on the cross

[marky mark]

Originally Posted by *Paul*

Good point, Christ had not yet given the command to the apostles to baptize in the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Using this as an example against baptismal regeneration would be a poor arguement.

However I think that salvation by grace through faith is clearly taught in the Epistles.

I agree! In Eph. 4:5, Paul states there is only "one baptism." From vv.4-6 he is speaking of aspects of God's salvation, they are essential for salvation. Therefore, the baptism of the Spirit is essential, for it places the regenerated sinner into the body of Christ. 1 Cor. 12:13-"For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body-whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free-and having all been made to drink into one Spirit." 1 Cor.1:14-17- "I thank God that I baptized none of you except Crispus and Gaius, lest anyone should say that I had baptized in my own name. Yes, I also baptized the household of Stephanas. Besides, I do not know whether I baptized any other. For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel." I believe every believer should be water baptized in obedience to Christ if at all possible. But, water baptism is suppose to be the outward evidence of the inward reality [baptism of the Spirit at regeneration], but to be water baptized without the inward reality is vain. So the only baptism essential to salvation is the baptism of the Spirit which is accomplished at the time of the new birth. Thanks...

[mmksparbud]

Christ was baptized---He, being the Son of God, didn't need to be--but it served several purposes--it was the outward symbol of His surrender to God, it served as an example for us to follow, and His baptism covers those who were, or may not, be able to be baptized--just as His death covers our sins.

[sojourner]

Originally Posted by mmksparbud

Christ was baptized---He, being the Son of God, didn't need to be--but it served several purposes--it was the outward symbol of His surrender to God, it served as an example for us to follow, and His baptism covers those who were, or may not, be able to be baptized--just as His death covers our sins.

I agree with you -- right up to your third point.