The Necessity of Baptism
A Scriptural Examination
Baptism is a central and essential teaching of the New Testament, and it is critical to address the denominational teachings that often misrepresent its role in salvation. Let’s examine these teachings and refute them with clear, scriptural evidence from scripture.
Is Baptism Merely an Outward Sign of an Inward Grace?
This phrase is commonly used in denominational teachings, but it is not found in Scripture. Nowhere does the Bible teach that baptism is merely symbolic or a public declaration. Instead, Scripture emphasizes that baptism is a transformative act essential to salvation.
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.”
This verse plainly states that baptism saves us. It is not just symbolic but a necessary response of faith.
Is Baptism Not Essential?
Many claim that baptism is unnecessary for salvation. This contradicts the clear teaching of Jesus and the apostles:
Mark 16:16: “He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.”
Jesus connects belief and baptism to salvation. To dismiss baptism as non-essential is to disregard His words.
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.”
Baptism is explicitly tied to the remission of sins. Peter did not say baptism was optional but commanded it for all.
Can We Be Saved Prior to Baptism?
The idea that salvation occurs prior to baptism is another false teaching without biblical support. Scripture repeatedly shows that baptism is the point at which sins are forgiven, and one is added to Christ:
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.”
Paul was still in his sins until he was baptized. It was through baptism that his sins were washed away.
Galatians 3:27: “For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.”
One is not “in Christ” until they are baptized. Salvation is found only in Christ (2 Timothy 2:10).
What Does the Bible Teach About Baptism?
The New Testament consistently teaches that baptism is essential for salvation, alongside faith, repentance, confession, and faithful living:
Faith: “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6).
Repentance: “Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent” (Acts 17:30).
Confession: “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” (Romans 10:9).
Baptism: “He who believes and is baptized will be saved” (Mark 16:16).
Faithful Living: “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Revelation 2:10).
Refuting False Teachings
It is false and dangerous to teach that:
Baptism is merely symbolic.
Baptism is not essential.
Salvation occurs before baptism.
Such teachings contradict the New Testament. The truth is that baptism:
Saves us (Mark 16:16, 1 Peter 3:21).
Washes away our sins (Acts 22:16, Acts 2:38).
Puts us into Christ (Galatians 3:27).
Is where we call on the name of the Lord (Acts 22:16).
To teach otherwise is to mislead people regarding the clear commands of God. As followers of Christ, we must uphold the biblical pattern for salvation: believe, repent, confess, be baptized, and live faithfully. Only then can we confidently say we are abiding in His truth and His will.
Let us commit to teaching and practicing the truth of God’s word regarding baptism, always pointing others to the Scriptures as our ultimate authority.
“But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart” (that is, the word of faith which we preach): 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. For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.””
Romans 10:8-13 NKJV
You think the thief on the cross got down and was baptized? Or are you suggesting that Yashuah was incorrect telling the thief that he would be in His Fathers kingdom?
Respectfully, you fail to make the distinction between spiritual baptism and the outward sign of an inner reality.
How you were taught this I do not know. Many verses speak clearly to this so saying “this is what the bible says” hinges on your interpretation which differs from other godly mens opinions.
Blessings