Baptism: biblical basis and urgency; no reason to delay
Listener Kenneth asks how to explain the importance of baptism to a new Christian who has not yet been baptized.
Mike cites Acts 2:38 (Peter commands repentance and baptism in Jesus' name for forgiveness of sins — Mike does not think this means baptism saves but it is clearly commanded). He notes Hebrews 5 lists baptisms/washings as foundational Christian doctrine. Acts 8:36-38: the Ethiopian eunuch hears about Jesus and immediately asks "what prevents me from being baptized?" — Philip baptizes him on the spot with no waiting period. Mike argues there is no biblical precedent for a multi-month believer's course before baptism. The question to ask the friend: "What is preventing you from being baptized?" Christians who have been believers for years without baptism should not be embarrassed but should simply go do it.
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Responses
Theology
verse entry
Ephesians 5:18-33
Sections: cross_references, debate_points, exegesis, greek_analysis
Theology
verse entry
1 Corinthians 11:2-9
Sections: cross_references, debate_points, exegesis, greek_analysis
Theology
verse entry
Genesis 2:21-23
Sections: debate_points, exegesis, greek_analysis
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