Within the Christian faith, among different denominations, there are several issues that are interpreted differently. Interpretations depend on the denomination. Most problems arise from differing opinions based on the meaning of specific verses in the Bible. One particular issue that causes much debate is whether or not baptism is necessary for salvation. In fact, the question arises from different opinions; however, some of these opinions fail to take into account the context and other details of the verses they use to support their opinion. There are many verses in the New Testament that clearly state that baptism is an event that follows salvation. Therefore, in the Christian faith, we are saved through faith alone in Jesus Christ, which is why baptism is not necessary for salvation. In fact, baptism is recommended to the new believer after they enter into a saving relationship with Jesus, for the purpose of making a public statement regarding their commitment to Jesus. Paul explains what salvation is in his letter to the Romans chapter 10 verse 9: “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in our heart that God raised him from the dead you will be saved” (NLT). Douglas Moo discusses the meaning of this verse in his commentary. He states: “The confession that Jesus is Lord is one of the most fundamental hallmarks of being a Christian. With one's heart one believes that God raises Jesus from the dead. The fulfillment of these two conditions leads to salvation” (Moo, 2000). To argue that Jesus' work on the cross was not enough to complete salvation is to belittle the sacrifice Jesus made. In John 3:16, God made it clear that Jesus' sole purpose in coming to earth was to provide salvation. .. in the middle of the paper ... of baptism does not align accurately with the Word of God; their doctrine is based on misinterpretations that contradict several verses of Scripture. It goes without saying that it is Solus Christus who saves us. Work cited Allen, Clifton J and John MacGorman. The Broadman Bible Commentary. Nashville, TN: Broadman Press, 1971 Hull, William E and Malcolm Tolbert. Luke-John.. Nashville, Tenn: Broadman Press, 1970.Moo, Douglas J. The NIV Application Commentary: Romans.. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan PublishingHouse, 2014.Brom, Robert H. “Tracts.” The necessity of baptism. Catholic Answers, August 10, 2004. Web. March 18, 2014. Laurie, Greg. The New Believer's Bible. New living translation. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House, 1996. Print."What Does the Bible Say About Baptism?" What does the Bible say about baptism? Christian Bible Reference Site, nd Web. March 18. 2014.
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