Tag Archives: salvation

Is Baptism Required for Salvation? An Alternate Look (2)

In part one of “Is Baptism Required for Salvation? An Alternate Look” I wrote about the argument used with the thief on the cross. Now I want to directly deal with what the Bible says about baptism, and I want to make one assertion very clear before I begin. I do not believe that baptism alone is required for salvation. I think that there is a large misconception that those who believe that baptism is required for salvation believe that only baptism is required for salvation. I do not believe that baptism alone is required for salvation, but that other … Continue reading →

Is Baptism Required for Salvation? An Alternate Look

A few weeks ago my fellow blogger, MJ, wrote an article entitled “Is Baptism Required for Salvation?” Her article prompted me to write this article, which is what I call an “alternate look” at the subject matter. I certainly do not want to attack anything MJ wrote, but rather present a different view on a hotly discussed issue. I know that for me personally, it is when discussions such as this one come up that I have some of my deepest Bible study. I initially wrote this article as one installment; however, it became very lengthy, therefore I have separated … Continue reading →

For Those Who Never Knew

I had often wondered what happens to those who never hear the gospel of Christ. There are countries out there where the people as a culture are involved in very dark things. So if the Lord comes, where will these people go? They haven’t had an opportunity to hear about Jesus so it would seem unfair that they would just perish. As I started a little study on this I became somewhat relieved. I don’t have all the answers but will continue to learn. In John 9:41, Jesus said to them, “…If you were blind, you would have no sin; … Continue reading →

Witnessing without a Word

We know we are supposed to witness to others and share the message of salvation. It is imperative for Christians to reach out to others and do our best to help show them to the Lord. However, sometimes how we go about witnessing may not be effective. Preaching will not work with most people. Many don’t want to hear the message of God, and they certainly don’t want to feel guilt for their sins. Preaching will likely drive people with this mindset further away from the Father, instead of leading them to salvation. Frequently, the most challenging people to witness … Continue reading →

Is Baptism Required for Salvation?

This question has brought on long, drawn out debates. There is no doubt whatsoever that Jesus does command that we are baptized by fire and by water to enter the kingdom of heaven (John 3:5). Though most Christians acknowledge this, the question is, whether or not baptism in addition to reception of Jesus Christ in one’s heart and confession of the mouth, is what saves us. Some denominations baptize babies with the belief, as good parents, they are allowing for the Holy Spirit to touch their child’s life since their baby or child is too young to request the baptism … Continue reading →

Two Kinds of Baptisms

The Bible makes reference to two kinds of baptisms. One is for repentance (John’s baptism) and the other for the Holy Spirit (done in Jesus’ name). Many churches accept these baptisms at the same time baptizing in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit which are one, and being submerged under water, open to receiving the Holy Spirit. “Jesus answered, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.’” (John 3:5) Here we can see both baptisms are necessary; we need to be reborn repenting … Continue reading →

How To Become A Christian

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I have been asked how one becomes a Christian. Generally, I simply tell them that it’s by receiving Jesus as their Savior and turning their lives over to Him. Regardless of the Christian denomination you are in or may enter, the following pretty much stands the same throughout the Evangelical churches. I thought I would elaborate a bit on what I think it means to accept Christ. I believe the most important decision you will make in your life is where you will spend your eternity. Unfortunately many believe that being a Christian just means believing that Jesus exists or … Continue reading →

Sunday Christians

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Sunday Christians, by my definition, are those who put on their Christian face to attend church on Sunday morning, but tend to forget it on their way home. I’ve sadly seen this with many who’ve been raised in a church but have never really sought out a personal relationship with God. I see it with others too though. Perhaps some of these people may believe going to church is their way of paying respects to God. While that is good too, it’s really important to get connected so you can be effective for Christ 7 days a week. My understanding … Continue reading →

Jesus is My Friend

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There are many ways I see God. I see Him as my Father, my Comforter, my Hope, my Healer… There are so many wonderful attributes about Him. One of the greatest ways I’ve see Him is as my friend. To think God wants to be our friend is so humbling to me. Jesus tells his disciples in John chapter 15 verses 13 through 15 that the greatest love comes from someone who would lay down his life for his friends. Of course, He was referring to Himself as He was going to die for us. He tells his disciples if … Continue reading →

Have We Lost Our Fear Of God?

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What a loving, merciful, gracious God we serve! He is so patient with us. He is the giver of all that is good. Jesus was even sent from heaven and born among men to walk with us fulfilling prophecy, dying for our sins and rising again! We certainly have a lot to be praising Him about. I enjoy going to church and celebrating God’s goodness with other believers. Somewhere in all the celebrating and political correctness of many churches, there seems to be a lack of correction and striving for holiness. Sadly, I see it in my great church too. … Continue reading →