To further understand the topic of Water Baptism, we must understand the word Baptism. The two definitions, imply; to dip in, or in the sense of immersing. Although, there are types of Baptism, but where there is a little understanding, there is much error, therefore the interest of consideration is Water Baptism.
The error ascribe to Water Baptism is the automatic receiving of Salvation by the one being baptized at the age of accountability or as an infant. The assumption is, through this process Salvation is earn. Furthermore, without this there is no remission of sins and there is no path to Salvation.
Water baptism is the outward expression of the inward change of heart. Therefore, to be baptized in water does not save a person. Instead, it is an expression showing the one being baptize is already saved. Like the union of marriage, a wedding ring is given to show the outward representation of the holy matrimony, but before the ring is given, the love is already present. So is water baptism, it is the outward expression of the believer already established fellowship with God.
God is not the respecter of a person, meaning His rules does not include certain individuals while excluding others. If salvation is through the act of being emerge, dip or pour with water, what shall be the fate of those in a certain geographical location, who do not even have the water to drink, less to dip themselves in? Shall they be left out of God's salvation plan? God forbid. Salvation is the acceptance of the Lord Jesus Christ by faith, God's gift to humanity. Salvation is carried out within the hearts of men. (Romans 10:13)
All men are born with a will, consequently, and all men have the choice of accepting Jesus Christ, God's plan for humanity. Salvation is the entrance into fellowship with God, then comes sanctification and ultimately, glorification. Meaning, upon salvation, we are set apart to be worked on by the Holy Spirit who lives in the heart of the believer. Our human nature is now being purged. Hence, we no longer take pleasure in wrong doing. Even when that which is wrong is enacted, the guilt is present. This is the act of sanctification.
We are not yet perfect, but we press toward perfection, which is glorification. As salvation is not in ourselves, meaning we do not fabricate it. Instead, it was freely received through faith in Jesus Christ. Likewise, the process of sanctification is in Jesus Christ, and ultimately, we shall be glorified in Christ. The receiving of His perfection. This is the process of the Christian living. By faith we were brought in, by faith we stay in, by faith we shall receive the reward thereof and never by works.
For by grace you are saved, through faith, and this not of yourselves; it is the gift of God; not of works, that not anyone should boast
(Ephesians 2:8-9 LITV)
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