Contrary to what is seen in denominational teachings, baptism is a prominent theme in the New Testament. Its many facets are discussed. Despite the claim of some that it is unimportant and unnecessary, the New Testament declares that when “obeyed from the heart” many blessings accompany baptism (Romans 6:17). These blessing are listed below:

One’s sins are remitted – Acts 2:38.
One is saved – Mark 16:16; 1 Peter 3:21.
One has his sins washed away – Acts 22:16.
One is added to the church – Acts 2:47; 1 Corinthians 12:13.
One enters Christ, where salvation is found – Galatians 3:27.

Though baptism is very important and necessary, there are some things baptism will not do. The truth is, baptism was not designed by the Lord to accomplish some things. In this article we will focus on some of them.

BAPTISM DOES NOT CHANGE THE HEART
One man said, “I was baptized and it didn’t do me any good, I was just as bad afterward, as before.” His problem was, he expected too much of baptism. The “heart” must be changed before baptism. The “heart” is. . .

The intellect which believes – Romans 10:10.
It is that by which man reasons – Mark 2:8.
It is that which results in man having the ability to think – Genesis 6:5; Proverbs 23:7.
It is that from which our emotions come, such as love (Matthew 22:37), trust (Proverbs 3:5), and desire – Romans 10:1.
The heart is that which produces the will with which we intend (Hebrews 4:12), purpose (2 Corinthians 9:7), and obey – Romans 6:17.

Baptism does not change these. It was never designed to do so. They are changed by our faith and repentance.

BAPTISM DOES NOT REMOVE TEMPTATION
Jesus was tempted immediately following his baptism (Matthew 4:1-11). Christians experience temptation because temptation is “common to men” (1 Corinthians 10:13; James 1: 2, 3, 12-15).
We should expect Satan to begin to tempt us earnestly following our baptism since we have changed our relationship with him (Ephesians 6:11).

BAPTISM DOES NOT MAKE ONE SINLESS
Not a one of us, having reached the point of accountability, is without sin (Romans 3:23; Galatians 2:11; 1 John 1:8-10). Past sins are forgiven at baptism, but there is no guarantee we will not sin in the future simply because we have been baptized.

BAPTISM DOES NOT GUARANTEE ETERNAL SALVATION
Though some believe “Once saved, always saved,” the New Testament does not teach it. After one becomes a Christian, he can. . .

“Be overtaken in a fault” and need restoring – Galatians 6:1.
“Sin and be in the gall of bitterness and bond of iniquity,” and perish – Acts 8:18-23.
“Return to weak and beggarly elements” of the world – Galatians 4:9.
“Turn from the Holy Commandments” of God – 2 Peter 2:20-22.
Look back and become unfit for kingdom – Luke 9:62.
Fall from grace – Galatians 5:4.

While some do not believe that baptism guarantees salvation, they live as though they do believe it. This is seen in baptism being their last positive action of obedience to God. Baptism is not the end of obedience, but the beginning of “walking a new life in Christ” (Romans 6:4; Colossians 3:1-3). The “crown of life” is for those who remain “faithful unto death” (Revelation 2:10).

Baptism is essential. There is no doubt about that. Contrary to man’s teachings, you cannot be saved without it. But baptism “alone” will not save any more than faith “alone.”

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