God doesn't always act according to our expectations or our time table and that's a critical test of faith, particularly when we deal with the great "why" questions. But God is always in absolute control even when the situation we experience seems contrary to that truth.
Today I want to encourage each of you, especially those of you who are facing an agonizing situation where you lack understanding. May the Lord give you a deep and abiding assurance of His steadfast love and care as You seek Him above all. Indeed God is in control!
God is in Control
THE DEFINITION AND PURPOSE OF WATER BAPTISM BY STEVE FINNELL
ReplyDeleteWhat is the definition and the purpose of water baptism under the New Covenant?
THE DEFINITION?
Baptism as defined in the Scriptures.
Acts 8:36 And, as they went on their way they came to a certain water; and the eunuch said, Look, here is water; what is there to hinder me from being immersed? (Ref: The Better Version of The New Testament by Chester Estes)
The definition of baptism is to be immersed in water.
Acts 8:36 As they went along the road they came to some water;and the eunuch said, "Look! Water! What prevents me from being baptized?" (Ref: NASB)
The definition of water baptism under the New Covenant is immersion in water.
Romans 6:4 We were, therefore, buried with him by immersion into that death; that as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, thus we also should walk in newness of life. (Ref: TBVOTNT by Chester Estes)
In water baptism, believers in Christ are buried by immersion in water. This symbolizes the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ.
Romans 6:4 Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life. (Ref: NASB)
To be buried through baptism makes it clear that water baptism is immersion. Men cannot be buried under a sprinkle or by having water poured over them.
Colossians 2:12 Having been buried with him by immersion, by which also you were raised up with him, through the belief of the strong working of God, who raised him from the dead. (Ref: TBVOTNT by Chester Estes)
Water baptism is a burial by immersion.
Colossians 2:12 having been buried with Him in baptism, in which you were also raised up with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead. (Ref: NASB)
Baptism is a burial by immersion.
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF WATER BAPTISM?
Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Let each one of you repent and be immersed, in the name of Jesus Christ, in order to the remission of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. (Ref: The Better Version Of The New Testament by Chester Estes)
One purpose of water baptism is in order to have sin forgiven.
Acts 2:38 Peter said to them, "Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. (Ref: NASB)
A reason to be baptized in water is so your sins may be forgiven.
Galatians 3:27 For as many of you as have been immersed into Christ, have put on Christ. (Ref: TBVOTNT by Chester Estes)
One purpose of water baptism is to put on Christ.
Galatians 3:27 For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. (Ref: NASB)
A purpose for water baptism is so men can be clothed with Christ.
Mark 16:16 He who has believed, and has been immersed, will be saved..... (Ref: TBVOTNT by Chester Estes)
A purpose of water baptism is in order to be saved.
Mark 16:16 He who has believed and has been baptized shall be saved.... (Ref: NASB)
One reason to be baptized in water is so that you may be saved from the punishment of your sins.
YES, WATER BAPTISM (IMMERSION IN WATER) IS ESSENTIAL TO BE SAVED.
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