Physical vs. Spiritual Dichotomy — Dualism One of the concepts of Greek mysticism that invaded Christianity, and continues to grip Christian thinking to some extent today, is the idea of a sharp dichotomy between the "spiritual" and the "physical." "Spirit" is seen as good, and "matter" is seen as inherently corrupt. This concept is typically … Continue reading Faith & Works – The Misconceptions Regarding Baptism
Baptism in Jesus' Name Many suppose that being baptized in Jesus' name means that the baptizer must pronounce the name of Jesus over the one being baptized. But that is not the usual meaning of the phrase "in the name of" in Scripture. To do something "in the name of" another usually means in the … Continue reading Baptism and the Great Commission
The New Testament associates many benefits with salvation, with faith, with obedience, and with repentance. The following list puts into perspective just how much the New Testament also says about the role of baptism. Many of the things here, which are clearly linked to baptism in the passages listed, cannot be explained outside of the … Continue reading 20 Truths of Baptism
Then Peter said to them, "Repent, and let every one of you be baptised in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as … Continue reading Repentance and Baptism Not Symbolic
The problem here is a western mindset trying to understand and take apart something that was never meant to be separated. Baptisms were always done as part of a conversion in the bible. For example, when Philip preaches to the Ethiopian eunuch what is his response to the gospel? "Here is some water. What would … Continue reading Is Baptism Part of Salvation?
In one of the most thrilling statements about salvation, Paul penned these words in his letter to the church at Ephesus. For by grace have you been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not of works, that no man should glory (Ephesians 2:8-9). The passage is one … Continue reading Does the Grace in Ephesians 2:8-9 Exclude Baptism?
Living as a Christian in this World 