Even in Corinth, there was division over to whom people owed their allegiance: to Apollos, Cephas, Paul, and/or Christ (1 Corinthians 1:12). The fruits of the Holy Spirit are traditionally listed as charity, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, generosity, gentleness, faithfulness, modesty, self-control, and chastity. Consider Luke 13:5: I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.. Is Paul adding someone to the salvation that comes through Christ alone by positing that someone must preach the Word? However, he didnt. Also, in Mark 16:16, it says, the one who believes and is baptized will be saved, but then says, the one who does not believe will be condemned. A person is condemned for not believing. In some denominations, baptism is administered in three parts: one is dipped three times under the water, once each in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Christian denominations differ widely in their teachings about the purpose of baptism. Acceptance of Women Preachers. It is a picture representing the profound spiritual truths of death, resurrection,and cleansing. Others believe that baptism, while not accomplishing salvation, is still a sign and seal of salvation. Many churches teach that baptism is a vital step of obedience in the believers life, yet only an outward acknowledgment or testimony of the. In fact, their name means "to be baptized again." Baptists: For Baptists, baptism is symbolic and by immersion only. Was Paul crucified for you? Answer: This argument attempts to make a firm distinction between the natures of the baptisms of John and Jesus (Luke 3:16, Acts 1:5). Nevertheless, individual congregations establish their own rules for preparation . After all, it is likely that the one with whom you speak is near plenty of water, and the only hindrance would be a lack of faith or understanding in his or her need to be immersed in water for the remission of their sin. Regarding the house of the jailer in Acts 16:31, we can safely say that the jailers household also must believe if its constituents will be saved, considering that no other Scripture witnesses that an entire family can be saved on account of the belief of one member. We can see, then, that Paul has previously been elevated beyond his position. The fact that Jesus and many others were baptized in rivers and other such sources of moving water is cited as evidence (cf. General Biblical Studies, Interdenominational Christian Training Center, Some faith groups believe baptism accomplishes the washing away of. Baptism, then, should be done when one is mentally capable of doing so, realizing ones sin and need for salvation in Christ. Every group recognizes the need for belief, and Paul says that belief can come only when one hears the Word of God. Others believe that baptism, while not accomplishing salvation, is still a sign and seal of salvation. Many denominations will have an official Statement of Fundamental belief and others will have a more fluid offering of their beliefs. The New Testament knows nothing of an unbaptized Christian, and therefore the text speaks generally about a baptized believer. While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell on all those who heard the message. 4. The major difference between New Testament teachings and the teachings of many denominations concerns the nature of baptism. Argument: 1 Corinthians 1:14-17 shows that baptism is not valid for today: Paul did not baptize, and Paul said to imitate him as he imitated Christ. There are some denominations today that teach that baptism is not a physical action that should be performed; instead, they teach that when Jesus and the Apostles mention baptism, they are speaking about a spiritual act. God said that we should be baptized for remission of sins, and that is the rule. Notice, for instance, that the exile of Israel and Judah are carried out not under faithful kings like Hezekiah or Josiah, but unfaithful kings, Hoshea and Zedekiah (2 Kings 17-18, 25). This act empowers believers for their Christian service. Therefore, it is a belief in the literal, physical, bodily resurrection of Christ that is necessary for salvation (Romans 10:9-10). Argument: Luke uses the Greek word eis in Acts 2:38. Thus, children were probably baptized also. We could say in response, If Christ comes down and says to you that He will see you in Paradise today, then good, you do not need to be baptized. 5. And how shall they hear without a preacher? Bible Verses to Help You Through the Death of a Loved One, What the Bible Says About Becoming a Christian. By going through this symbolic act, we proclaim to accept Christ's . There are denominations that believe baptism is necessary for salvation. The Samarians in Acts 8:5-17 and the disciples of John in Acts 19:1-6 are said to have first been baptized and then later had hands laid on them so as to receive the Holy Spirit, demonstrating that their baptism was not in the Spirit. By no means! They would not consider it! And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus, and thou shalt be saved, thou and thy house. It does not wash away sin but symbolizes the forgiveness of sin through faith in Christ. If Acts 2:38, Romans 6:3-7, and 1 Peter 3:21 affirm the need for baptism to be saved, we recognize that all of these aspects, not just one or two, are necessary. Sometimes baptism is mentioned as done in the name of Jesus (Acts 2:38), and therefore it is entirely possible that some were baptized with only Jesus name mentioned and therefore one immersion. In addition, if baptism is necessary for salvation, then it would seem strange for Paul to boast about not baptizing people and to declare Christ did not send him to baptize. In 1 Corinthians 1:14-17, he said: I thank God that I did not baptize any of you except Crispus and Gaius, so that no one can say that you were baptized in my name! The above is highly unlikely, especially in view of Matthew 26:28: For this is my blood of the covenant, which is shed for many unto remission of sins.. Denominations may differ in their interpretation of minor issues or on how churches should be run, but for the most part they agree on essential matters of doctrine about Christ and salvation. Paul says this much about Christs actions: Have this mind in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who, being in the form of God, counted it not a prize to be on an equality with God, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men; and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, becoming obedient even unto death, yea, the death of the cross. A group of elders usually lead these churches and are responsible for establishing the doctrines, worship, and teachings of the church. All emphases in Scripture quotations have been added. Christian Denominations & What they believe: Water Baptism Water Baptism: When available, all of the teachings and practices are from the website of the organization itself. To deny the need for obedience for salvation is to deny the New Testament plan of salvation. It is necessary in the same sense that a seal is as aspect of confirming the certainty of promises. It says nothing about being condemned because of not being baptized. Baptize infants because they believe when an infant is baptized, God creates faith in the heart of the infant. The conclusion is clear: children do not have sin against them. Paul writes, "For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power." . Required fields are marked *. His salvation was based on faith alone. Salvation is a gift of God, not based on our works. Take, for example, Acts 10:44-47. After the first and second great awakening, Baptist set to emerge during the 18 th century and started spreading across the world. Regardless, the Scriptures show also that the punishment of sin is only for those who sin: The fathers shall not be put to death for the children, neither shall the children be put to death for the fathers: every man shall be put to death for his own sin (Deuteronomy 24:16). Holy Bible, New International Version , NIV Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. Used by permission. Compare the beliefs of various Christian denominations concerning baptism. It happens by grace through faith (cf. Baptism is something we do, or choose to have done to us, and is therefore a work. The first premise for baptizing infants is an inference based on the content of some of the Scriptures. : 6. There the evidence for the baptism of the Holy Spirit is considered: it is seen that the baptism of the Holy Spirit is only mentioned in connection with two specific events for two specific purposes, and both times it was done by God alone: on the day of Pentecost, as a fulfillment of the prophecies of Joel (cf. A denomination is a branch or sub-group within Christianity that has a distinct name, organizational structure, and set of core doctrines. Baptism is submissive obedience to Christ, commanded by Him, and we must follow through. Collectively, these denominations can be referred to as the "Baptist tradition." The . What other questions or applications did you take from the reading. But not as the trespass, so also is the free gift. Above all, "once saved, always saved" is simply not part of our theological vocabulary or world-view. Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: "Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. Do we not even today say, The apple does not fall far from the tree? If the fathers involve themselves in some sin, it is very likely that children will also. We see here that not only do none do good, none even know God. Some Protestants like to use 1 Corinthians 1:17 to claim that this teaching contradicts the Bible. (Acts 22:16) So for us, it is not as much about what we give during Baptism (i.e., a profession of faith) but it is about what we get, which is salvation. Obedience is central to the reception of the work which Christ has done; we are only able to receive the salvation that comes through Christ when we are obedient to His will, as said in 2 Thessalonians 1:6-9: If so be that it is a righteous thing with God to recompense affliction to them that afflict you, and to you that are afflicted rest with us, at the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with the angels of his power in flaming fire, rendering vengeance to them that know not God, and to them that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus: who shall suffer punishment, even eternal destruction from the face of the Lord and from the glory of his might. It means placing our pride, our past, and all of our possessions before the Lord. Answer: We recognize that the power in baptism is not in the water, but in the appeal in faith to God for the cleansing from sin (cf. Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me. Pentecostalism/The Charismatic Movement: What is the Baptism of the Holy Spirit?. It should be noted that this same type of argument will also use belief from Acts 16:31 or another passage, and one can respond in a similar way as above. In a sacrament, God uses common elements -- in this case, water -- as means or vehicles of divine grace. Answer: We can see here a classic example of inferring an answer despite the fact that one has been given. (2021, September 3). The belief that baptism is necessary for salvation is also known as " baptismal regeneration ." It is our contention that baptism is an important step of obedience for a Christian, but we adamantly reject baptism as being required for salvation. Unto remission of sins in the above is the exact same phrase as used in Acts 2:38, and eis is indeed the preposition rendered unto. And yet He left not himself without witness, in that he did good and gave you from heaven rains and fruitful seasons, filling your hearts with food and gladness. Would you like to take a Bible quiz on the baptism of Jesus? Argument: Jesus, and only Jesus, has performed the work of salvation. This motion of immersion symbolizes Christ's death and resurrection, which provides the forgiveness of our sins. Well, what if someone is hearing the Gospel, sees that Christ is Lord and that He died for his sins, but just before he could repent, he is struck by lightning and dies. Do children know God? Baptists believe baptism is a symbol of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Different denominations hold varying views on baptism and whether it's necessary to achieve salvation. Let us examine the passage that Paul quotes in Romans 3:10ff, Psalm 53:1-3: The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. Corrupt are they, and have done abominable iniquity; There is none that doeth good. It does not complete it. For if by the trespass of the one the many died, much more did the grace of God, and the gift by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, abound unto the many. The Catholic Church teaches that baptism is "necessary for salvation" (CCC 1257). But when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of it, they rent their garments, and sprang forth among the multitude, crying out and saying, The main difference between traditional Christianity and Seventh Day Adventism is the observance of the Saturday Sabbath and the emphasis on the imminent return of Jesus Christ. 1 MacArthur, J., & Mayhue, R. Compare major beliefs of seven different Christian denominations: Anglican / Episcopal, Assembly of God, Baptist, Lutheran, Methodist, Presbyterian, and Roman Catholic. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven., And he sat down, and called the twelve; and he saith unto them, If any man would be first, he shall be last of all, and minister of all. It should be preceded by repentance, which simply means change. That change is the turning from our sin and selfishness to serve the Lord. Retort: 1 Corinthians 12:13 indicates that we are all baptized in the Spirit. Can children understand fully the precepts of the Lord, especially infants? Photo courtesy: Unsplash/Jon Tyson. This is actually a confirmation of the need for baptism: Christ used Himself as an example for baptism and people were baptized in His name with His approval while present on the earth. The English word "baptism" comes from the Greek baptisma, which refers to "washing, dipping, or immersing something into water.". One of the stronger arguments is the salvation of the thief on the cross who was never baptized and the story of Cornelius the centurion who received the Holy Spirit before baptism. He has served over eighteen years in pastoral ministry, and currently serves as a chaplain and professor at Handong G More, The Net Pastors Journal, Eng. Baptism publicly acknowledges one's confession of faith and belief in the gospel message. We cannot understand this verse to be in contradiction with the mountain of evidence for immersion in water (cf. Since we know that the sum of Gods word is true (Psalm 119:160) and without contradiction, we must consider the context of the passage and see whether there are some mitigating circumstances. John 3:16, 6:40; 1 John 4:14-15, 5:5, 5:10. Furthermore, why would anyone who believed not be baptized? However, baptism is not the instrument of confirmation, faith is the instrument of confirmation. Jesus indicates that if anyone desires to enter the Kingdom of Heaven, he or she must be like a little child. Why would someone who disbelieves be baptized? Those passages are difficult to understand if water baptism is necessary for salvation. The soul that sinneth, it shall die: the son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son; the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him (Ezekiel 18:20). Christian denominations differ widely in their teachings about the purpose of baptism. There is no mention of baptism. Meet John the Baptist: The Greatest Man to Ever Live, Christian Reformed Church Beliefs and Practices. Catholics don't believe Baptism is only a sign. Answer: This is one of many kinds of such arguments: it may involve different details, but the idea is the same: a person is hindered from being baptized and dies. Before exploring the purpose of baptism in the Christian life, it's important to gain an understanding of its meaning. Similarly, we see that Cornelius in Acts 10 received the Holy Spirit before baptism, which means that he was saved. Catholic. Baptists don't believe baptism is necessary for salvation. What Does the Bible Say About Divorce and Remarriage? And the Catechism of the Catholic Church states: "The Lord himself affirms that baptism is necessary for salvation [John 3:5]. They are not capable of understanding such things. This argument would perhaps have merit if it were not for Pauls discussion with some of Johns disciples in Acts 19:1-6: And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper country came to Ephesus, and found certain disciples: and he said unto them, Did ye receive the Holy Spirit when ye believed? By no means! 2 Samuel 12). Throughout the Bible God has chosen humans to communicate His message to their fellow man. And with these sayings scarce restrained they the multitudes from doing sacrifice unto them. If the disciples were out baptizing people during Christs ministry, it is very likely that they had already been baptized as well. Now that we have looked at the Scriptures, let us look at other arguments that are used against baptism. For example, Acts 2:38 says, Peter said to them, Repent, and each one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Also, Mark 16:16 says, The one who believes and is baptized will be saved, but the one who does not believe will be condemned. The belief that baptism is necessary for salvation is called baptismal regeneration. Baptism is the application of water to an adult, child or infant by an ordained minister in the presence of a church congregation. Those baptized by John acknowledged their sins and professed their faith that through the coming Messiah they would be forgiven. Here are 10 things to know about Baptists and their beliefs. Belief and confession, then, and not baptism, save. He said believe. And how shall they believe in him whom they have not heard? Fairchild, Mary. Furthermore, God is the only one who administers the baptism of the Holy Spirit, and is done not by the intent of man but by the intent of God, as seen in Acts 2 and 10. Water Baptism doesn't save a person. By all accounts, baptism was a singular immersion done in the name of (or by the authority of) the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:18-20). Acts 9:18, Acts 16:15, Acts 16:33, Acts 18:18, etc. Since baptism in water was the standard form of baptism, and the baptism of the Holy Spirit was only given in special circumstances by God for specific purposes, we can see clearly that baptism in water is the one baptism in Ephesians 4:5. It is entirely possible, therefore, that the Apostles were baptized and yet such was not revealed. Argument: What if an airplane crashes into the desert, and a Christian on that plane converts everyone but cannot baptize them, and they all die without water. Answer: Since no statement to this effect can be found in Acts 10 or any other passage, to understand and respond to this argument, we must understand the underlying assumption driving it: if one has the Holy Spirit, one must be in a saved state. While we realize that Paul is using the metaphor baptism as burial, the metaphor only makes sense if we realize that baptism is immersion. Answer: This argument is based upon an assumption about the term household. Within the texts in question, Acts 10:2 and Acts 16:24-38, we also read the following about these families: a devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, who gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God always (Acts 10:2). What stood out most in the reading and why? Or do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus have been baptized into His death? This is important; since He has this authority, the terms of salvation come through Christ. Every one of them is gone back; they are together become filthy; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not in wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made void. The main justification of infant baptism, then, is without Scriptural merit. Eph 2:8-9, Rom 10:13). Baptism in water, however, is explicitly identified in Acts 8:36-39 and also in Acts 10:47-48, right after Cornelius was baptized with the Holy Spirit. And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other. Argument: Cornelius was saved before baptism. Therefore, other examples in the Scripture when persons submit to baptism (cf. Verse 3 figuratively says believers have been baptized into Christ and into His death. Likewise, Paul establishes that if the resurrection is not true, then our faith in Christ is in vain, and we are still in our sins (1 Corinthians 15:12-18). And Paul said, John baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Jesus. In 1 Corinthians 1:17, Paul states that "Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel," thus clearly differentiating the gospel from baptism. Baptism is an identification of an old life dying with Christ and a new life being resurrected as a new creation ( 2 Corinthians 5:17 ). While this passage may give the impression that we inherit sin from Adam, when we read it closely, we see that Paul says no such thing. Find out where these faith groups intersect and where they diverge or decide which denomination lines up most closely with your own beliefs. We believe something very profound and tangible happens during Baptism. Since no man can speak of himself when prophesying, but is guided by the Holy Spirit (2 Peter 1:21), Caiaphas must have spoken by the Holy Spirit, and therefore the Holy Spirit was with him. John the Baptist was sent by God to spread the news of the coming Messiah,Jesus Christ. Romans 5:12-17 is often used to try to show that we have inherited sin from Adam: Therefore, as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin; and so death passed unto all men, for that all sinned for until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. This moment varies by the individual, and some who have mental handicaps may never reach that moment. Many Christians believe that baptising cleanses people from . Peter in fact affirms the efficacy of baptism. Baptism is immersion. 6:3-4), Christian identity (Gal. Let us consider 1 Corinthians 1:14-17: I thank God that I baptized none of you, save Crispus and Gaius; lest any man should say that ye were baptized into my name. After being born again, we must confess our sins, and by doing so, we are forgiven, as John says in 1 John 1:9: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." Romans 10:9 "If you declare with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."