Galatians 3: 27 Whic Baptism

Baptism should not be the basis for division amongst church, for it should not be considered a “major” doctrine. However, it is still very important in the life of a believer. Baptism should only be administered to those have had a true profession of faith. Baptism is rightfully done through immersion, and symbolizes Christ’s resurrection and the cleansing of our sin. Baptism is necessary because Jesus commanded that believers be baptized. However, baptism does not play any role in a believer’s salvation.

Baptism should only be administered to those have a had a true profession of faith. Baptism recognizes the beginning of the Christian life. In Bible Doctrine, Grudem puts it like this, “The outward symbol of beginning the Christian life should only be given to those who show evidence of having begun the Christian life.” Acts 2:41 says, “Those who received his word were baptized.” This verse speaks to the fact that baptism is an action that should procced after the profession of faith. Another verse which speaks to the to the purpose of baptism is Galatians 3:27

However, baptism does not play any role in a believer’s salvation. In Matthew 28:19, Jesus commands believers to spread the gospel and baptize new believers. Though this command should be taken as seriously as any other commandment, it is not required for salvation. Grudem suggests that to say “any other action is necessary for salvation is to say that we are not justified by faith alone, but by faith plus a certain ‘work,’ the work of baptism.” This would directly contradict the common belief of systematic theology which is affirmed by verses like Ephesians 2:8 which says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God” (Grudem 384). However, baptism displays a believer’s choice not to live a life of sin, for “baptism signifies our cutting off from the kingdom of sin”