Baptism And Works

In debating with denominational preachers concerning the necessity of baptism for the remission of sins, Ephesians 2:8-9 is always referred to. One argument that is made in an attempt to deny the essential nature of baptism for salvation is to say that baptism is a human work, and salvation is not of works. In addition to Ephesians 2:9, Romans 4:4-5 is frequently quoted.

This passage states:

“Now to him who works, the wages are not counted as grace [a favor] , but as debt. But to him who does not work but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness” (Romans 4:4-5).

Thus, according to their argument, since baptism is a work that humans do, it can not be essential to salvation.

Brethren and friends, baptism is a work, but it is not a work that man invented or devised. In truth, baptism is no more a human work than belief is a human work. In John 6:28-29, we find the following exchange between Jesus and a multitude near the city of Capernaum:

See here.

—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets

Related Articles:

• Is Baptism A Gospel Obligation?
• Baptism -- A Condition That Must Be Met
• A Dispute About The Purpose Of Baptism