There are those who say that baptism is not a part of the plan of salvation at all. There is no reason to be baptized, whether for forgiveness, to follow the Lord’s example of an outward sign of an inward grace. However, the Bible clearly shows baptism is a part of God’s plan. “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19).
So, if baptism is a part of God’s plan, where does it appear, before or after salvation? To answer this, simply read the following passages.
- “He who believes and is baptized will be saved, but he who does not believe will be condemned” (Mark 16:16).
- “Repent, and let every one of you is baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:38).
- “And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord” (Acts 22:16).
Each passage puts baptism before salvation. Some say baptism is a work and opposed to being saved by faith. The Holy Spirit does not agree with them. He revealed, “For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ” (Galatians 3:26-27). Faith and baptism are in harmony with one another, not in opposition.
Baptism is a part of God’s plan of salvation. Man must not only believe in Jesus, repent of his sins, confess Him before men, but also be baptized to have his sins removed (John 3:16; Acts 3:19; Romans 10:9-10; Colossians 2:11-12).
Steven F. Deaton
