ROB'S REACTION

ONE BAPTISM

Ephesians 4:5

Why is it that so many people have trouble with this passage on baptism?  By the time the book of Ephesians was written Paul said there is "one baptism." So, which one is it?

Jesus gave the command in Matthew 28:19-20 to "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them....." Baptizing people was commanded and it was in effect until the "end of the age." So, what baptism was "commanded?" Baptism in water was given by command (Acts 2:38; 10:47, 48; 22:16). This is the baptism we comply with in obedience of faith (Romans 1:5).

Baptism in water is the one baptism of Ephesians 4:5 It is the baptism that is commanded. It is not the same as the baptism of John. It is not the baptism of fire. It is not the baptism of the Holy Spirit. The one baptism means a burial in water (immersion-Acrs 8:38). It is a visible demonstration of our faith in the Jesus and God's Word. Before a person is to be baptized, he/she must have faith, be willing to repent and acknowledge their faith in Jesus as the Son of God (Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38; Acts 8:37).

Baptism is "for the remission of sins" (Acts 2:38; 1 Peter 3:21) and it puts one "in Christ" (Galatians 3:27) and into the Lord's body, the church (Colossians 1:18; 1 Corinthians 12:13).

Simply because one is baptized - that does not mean that salvation is earned or merited by a single act of obedience. But faith does demand obedience. When sinners respond to the gospel message in faith and are baptized, God goes to work and removes sin, washes us clean, and we begin a new life as a disciple of Christ (Colossians 2:8-12).

If you would like to talk to study more on this subject, please feel free to call me at 910-205-0093. "Come and See" how New Testament Christianity can bless your life. Visit the Boyd Lake Road Church of Christ soon.

Rob Albright