Is Baptism in water a work or a command? Is it necessary for salvation?

Everything I am about to say rests of these Scriptures.

Eph 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Eph 2:9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Eph 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Acts 2:37-41 is a passage in the Book of Acts that describes the conversion of a large number of people to Christianity following Peter's Pentecost sermon. The passage begins with the people being "cut to the heart" after hearing Peter's sermon, which they realized convicted them of their sins. They then asked Peter and the other apostles what they should do. Peter responded by telling them to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins. He also promised them that they would receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Those who gladly received Peter's word were baptized, and on that day about 3,000 souls were added to the church. This passage is significant because it shows how the early church grew rapidly in the weeks and months following Jesus's ascension into heaven. It also highlights the importance of repentance and baptism in the Christian faith.

Here is a breakdown of the passage:

Acts 2:37

This verse describes the reaction of the people to Peter's sermon. They were "cut to the heart" by his words, which means that they were deeply moved and convicted by them. This is a common reaction to the preaching of the gospel, as it exposes people's sin and need for salvation.

Acts 2:38

This verse records the people's question to Peter and the other apostles. They asked, "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" This shows that they were open to changing their ways and following Jesus Christ.

Acts 2:39

Peter's response to the people's question is a summary of the gospel message. He told them to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins. Repentance is a turning away from sin, and baptism is a symbolic washing away of sin.

Acts 2:40

Peter continued his explanation of the gospel by telling the people that they would receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is sent to dwell in the hearts of believers. He empowers them to live for Christ and to share the gospel with others.

Acts 2:41

This verse describes the response of those who gladly received Peter's word. They were baptized, and on that day about 3,000 souls were added to the church. This is a remarkable number of conversions, and it shows how the early church was growing rapidly.
The passage concludes with Peter and the other apostles continuing to preach the gospel and teach the new converts. The church continued to grow and spread throughout the world.

it"s an ordinance. AFTER a person has been Born Again by FAITH in the SIN OFFERING of Jesus, then they should be water baptised as a testimony of what HAS HAPPENED. Baptism is not salvific, and IS NOT NECESSARY FOR SALVATION.

Different religious paradigms (Denominations) disagree. Let 'em - it's nothing but "Theology". Roman Catholic Paedobaptism has no spiritual effect on the baby (Just makes the top of them a little cleaner).

Ephesians 4:5-6

In Acts 2:37-40, Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, preached a powerful message that convicted the hearts of the people who heard it. The people were deeply moved by Peter's words and asked him what they should do. Peter responded with clear instructions:

Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

(Acts 2:38)

These instructions are not merely suggestions or recommendations; they are commands. Peter is speaking with the authority of the Holy Spirit, and his words are meant to be obeyed.

Baptism is not a work of man; it is a sacrament that was instituted by God himself. It is a sign of our faith in Jesus Christ and a means of receiving his grace. Through baptism, we are cleansed of our sins and united with Christ.

The command to be baptized is not just for the people who heard Peter's message on that day of Pentecost; it is for all people, everywhere. It is a command that is still in effect today. If you have not yet been baptized, I urge you to follow Peter's instructions and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. It is a step of obedience that will lead you to a life of newness and hope.

If you believe I am in error please point my to Scripture that would say otherwise. Truth and Life always from God. God Bless you all.

When John the Baptist protested to Jesus Yeshua that he should not baptize Him rather it should be the other way around, our Savior declared it must be so that He would complete all righteousness.

It could be construed as a work, but if we are to imitate Jesus Yeshua the best we can, I would say being baptized is doing so. Again, I concur that no man need be baptized in water to be saved, but it is a holy gesture, and also follows the Example of our blessed Savior.

People are born dead spiritually. They must first be made alive to respond.

Jesus was under a works covenant, as was Adam. We are not.

thanks for taking the time to post I enjoyed the read some good thoughts in there

just wanted to share paul discussing baptism and remission of sins along with a conversion of the person that I feel fits into your post here remember this declaration

“Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth, it shall die.”
‭‭Ezekiel‬ ‭18:4‬ ‭KJV‬‬

And then this which came to atone for that

“For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:”
‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭15:3-4‬ ‭KJV‬‬

So now how baptism relates there if I believe sin requires death and I believe Jesus died for my sins then baptism for remission of sins makes absolutely perfect sense because

“Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.

Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.

Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.

For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? ( so is it now okay if we sin?” becaue of grace ?)

God forbid! Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey;

whether of sin unto death, ( option one )

or of obedience unto righteousness? ( option 2)

But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. ( baptism for remission of sins Paul’s been explainkng here )

Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.

For when ye were the servants of sin, ( past tense ) ye were free from righteousness. What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death.

But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.

For the wages of sin is death;

but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”( as Paul has just been elaborating upon )
‭‭Romans‬ ‭6:3-18, 20-23‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Baptism according to scripture has a lot of significant relevance and is a staple of Christian doctrine a basic a fundamental doctrine that is explained and spoken of throughout the Bible

Let my say that genuine Godly sorrow for repentance will by Scripture draw the new member of the Body of Christ to baptism. Because it is Good and Proper in the eyes of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Jas_4:17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.

Plus Peter full of the Holy Ghost,in Acts Chapter 2, gave a sermon on the Day of Pentecost.

Act 2:14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:

The word "hearken" means to listen attentively and obediently. When the Bible says "hearken to my words," it is urging us to pay close attention to what God is saying and to follow His instructions. It is a call to submission to God's authority and a recognition of His wisdom and love.

Giving a direct command from the Holy Ghost in vs.38 to a question from all present "What shall we do to be saved?" Paraphrasing of course. If Scripture isn't saying that through Word study let me know.

Act 2:37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?

The phrase "pricked in the heart" is used in the Bible to describe a deep sense of remorse or sorrow. It is often used in the context of repentance, when someone is feeling guilty about their sins and is seeking forgiveness from God.

The word "pricked" is used to convey a sense of sharpness or pain. It is as if the person's heart is being pierced by a sharp object. This is because sin can be a very painful thing. It can weigh us down and make us feel guilty and ashamed.

The phrase "in the heart" is used to indicate that this remorse is not just superficial. It is not just a matter of feeling sorry for getting caught. It is a deep and genuine feeling of regret that comes from within.

When the Bible says that someone is pricked in the heart, it is saying that they are experiencing true repentance. They are not just sorry for their sins; they are also willing to turn away from them and follow God.

This is a powerful image that can be very helpful for people who are struggling with sin. It can remind us that sin is not something to be taken lightly. It can also remind us that there is hope for forgiveness if we are willing to repent.


Act 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Well, this one certainly hasn't come up before.

Yes, it is well and good so long as one understands that it is only by the cleansing blood of Jesus that sins can be washed away. Some probably believe that foot washing, bead counting, and holy kissing are requirements for salvation as well.

Water Baptism AFTER being Born Again and becoming a Christian, is a Biblical ordinance that different churches evaluate differently.

Our church Baptizes n morning service whenever we have a number of folks that have been saved, to justify filling the Baptismal tank.

A Local Assembly of God church just had a "Splash Party" where they Baptized over 130 people in morning service. I was Born again on a Wednesday night in my apartment, and was Baptised the following Sunday evening.

It Changed NOTHING, but I did feel that I'd been obedient to the Word in getting it done.

~
According to Heb 5:12-6:2, people fixated on baptism have some growing up
to do, i.e. they're immature.
_

You say don't get fixated on baptism, but according to those Scriptures its quite the opposite.

The passage from Hebrews 6:1-3 is a call to Christian growth and maturity. It encourages believers to move past the basic teachings of the faith and strive for perfection. (moving past is not the same as not being fixated or don't worry about)

The author of Hebrews begins by reminding his readers of the "principles of the doctrine of Christ" (Heb 6:1). These principles are the foundation of the Christian faith, and they include repentance from dead works, faith in God, baptism, laying on of hands, resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment.

The author then urges his readers to "go on unto perfection" (Heb 6:1). This does not mean that Christians can become sinless, but it does mean that they can grow in their knowledge and understanding of God, and they can increasingly conform their lives to his will.

The author provides several steps that Christians can take to grow in their faith. First, they must "lay again the foundation of repentance from dead works" (Heb 6:1). This means that they must regularly confess and turn away from their sins. Second, they must "have faith toward God" (Heb 6:1). This means that they must trust in God's promises and rely on his strength.

The author also mentions three specific doctrines that are important for Christian growth: baptism, laying on of hands, and resurrection of the dead. Baptism is a symbol of a person's commitment to follow Christ. Laying on of hands is a way of praying for someone to receive the Holy Spirit. Resurrection of the dead is the promise that all believers will be raised from the dead to eternal life.

Finally, the author acknowledges that Christian growth is not always easy. He says, "And this will we do, if God permit" (Heb 6:3). This means that we need to rely on God's strength and grace to help us grow in our faith.

The passage from Hebrews 6:1-3 is a reminder that Christian growth is a lifelong journey. It is a journey that requires faith, effort, and perseverance. But it is also a journey that is worth taking, because it leads to a closer relationship with God and a life that is more fulfilling and meaningful.

Good point. It does indeed justify the Baptismal tank and the pump and the pipes.

I agree that it is a good ritual of remembrance and reminder. It is indeed Biblical, as are the many other rituals I previously mentioned (except for bead-counting.)

.

I'm not, but there are others who are, sort of like Jews fixated on
circumcision.
_

You grabbed a portion of my response but left this part out.

but according to those Scriptures its quite the opposite. This is what you need to respond to?

The passage from Hebrews 6:1-3 is a call to Christian growth and maturity. It encourages believers to move past the basic teachings of the faith and strive for perfection. (moving past is not the same as not being fixated or don't worry about)

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Noone on Earth brings new revelation, that isn't already revealed through the Word of God, which is fullest revelation given to man. Through the moving and operation of the Holy Ghost, I Pray what we say here brings the truth of these Revelations, truth by truth, or precept upon precept, to the heart of the hearer. Lay what we say before the feet of Jesus (Word of God) and compare, the Bible is Always truth, so if they don't match, we need to reevaluate our stance. What we say or do here will have lasting impact upon the believer and sinner alike. We most certainly have freedom of speech, but any true christian will weigh what they say against the Word of God and if they don't agree God is not in error, and we need to pray for understanding. Those that have more meat of the Word can help those who are struggling, if done with humility, peace and love. I don't mind a peaceful debate, but when we start to argue amongst each other that is not the Spirit of God. God Bless and Peace to you all.
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I don't use bold type as a form of yelling just as emphasis only.

Please anyone Let me know if this offends you. It is a message of concern done in humility and peace. Someone got offended and blocked me. I a very serious because I'll watch how I word things in the future. Let me know what offends you are where scripture would say Im wrong. Thank you and God Bless

Hold up! 'The church'.. being added to here... is the church at Jerusalem. These are already saved people joining in membership to the church at Jerusalem.

These are people who were sealed by the Holy Spirit individually before being given the Holy Spirit 'in the midst' of their local church.

When 'the church' is in question.. you have to check what is being talked about. It's not 'all redeemed' unless it's about the final end church in the New Jerusalem.

Matthew 16:18 is of the local church.. because it is of the local church in Matthew 18:20. Jesus would not introduce the church one way and then contradict Himself later!

Receiving the Spirit at salvation happens BEFORE water baptism. A group receiving the Holy Spirit to become one of God's churches is a different kettle of fish.. but this group would have already been individually converted and baptised in water.

You gotta check the context! Just like the body in 1 co 12.. is actually the local body at Corinth.. NOT all redeemed.