Does Baptism Get You into Heaven?
July 17
We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.
In the history of Christianity, one of the most contentious issues has been the role of baptism in the Christian life. Some use certain Bible verses to promote the idea that baptism is necessary for salvation. Others see it as a command, but not necessary to go to heaven. So what’s the answer?
Well, for one, the Bible is clear in its teachings that salvation is by grace through faith, not works (Ephesians 2:8-9). So if baptism was a requirement for heaven, then salvation wouldn’t be through faith. And second, just because you’re baptized, it doesn’t mean you’re saved by faith.
The best analogy I’ve heard related to baptism is a wedding ring. I wear my ring every day as a display of my commitment to my wife. But when I take it off at night, I’m no less married than when I had it on.
Baptism is a command, but it’s commanded as a public proclamation of your relationship with Jesus Christ. It doesn’t save you, but it’s not to be neglected either. So if you haven’t been baptized as a public display of your salvation, I encourage you to do it. Follow the biblical command of baptism and proudly display your wedding ring of faith to the world!
ACKNOWLEDGE PUBLICLY THAT YOU’VE PLACED YOUR FAITH IN CHRIST BY BEING BAPTIZED.
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