Water baptism and what's its standing today in the Christian faith

When we encounter John the Baptist in the Bible, he is confidently preaching in the River Jordan about the imminent arrival of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. John played a pivotal role in setting the stage and preparing the way for the Messiah's mission. Notably, he was also Jesus' first cousin.

John was the first to introduce Jesus to the world, speaking with authority about the prophecies and descriptions of the awaited one. The sign of his presence was the Holy Spirit descending as a dove and resting upon his shoulder.

At that time, John was the primary figure conducting baptisms. Baptism was commanded for those who accepted the prophecy of the Messiah. Many interpreted Paul's teachings on baptism as suggesting it was necessary for salvation. However, this is not the case. Baptism alone holds no power to save. By closely following the teachings, it becomes clear that baptism is a representation and a necessary act following salvation. It is crucial because it is said that if anyone denies Him before man, then God would deny them. This act is a public declaration of faith, confirming our commitment and agreement by faith.

Just as we are born of water to our natural mothers, water is used in baptism because we are told we must be born again to be saved. We are to be born again in spirit, and the water symbolizes both rebirth and the blood of Christ. Jesus is the coming Messiah, the one through whom we are saved. As the Word says, He is the way, the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father except through Him.

The blood represents the life and sacrifice Jesus made for us. Through the shedding of His blood, we are cleansed and covered. When we go under the water, we are covered and cleansed, symbolizing being buried as Christ was. By participating in this, we partake in His resurrection. This act signifies that our sinful nature has died and is now buried with Him. We are engaging in a divine exchange. Once washed by the blood/water, we rise with Christ as a born-again new creation, free from the debt of our sins. These actions are symbolic gestures reflecting the spiritual transformation of the new believer and saved soul.

Salvation begins by hearing, as the Word says, faith comes through hearing the Word. After hearing, we decide whether to accept it as truth. The Word states that if we believe and receive the Word, we are saved by grace, thanks to Jesus. Grace means undeserved favor. If it's undeserved, then there's nothing we need to do to be saved. We can't do anything anyway, as we are all sinners and fall short daily of God's grace. The Word says no one is good and without sin. Claiming to be without sin is self-deception. Every human, including Mary, has sinned and needs redemption.

If baptism or anything else could save you, consider this: why did Jesus die? His death would be in vain. Claiming anything else has that power is equivalent to saying Jesus isn't enough. Suggesting anything should be coupled with what Jesus did implies He isn't sufficient. Jesus doesn't need assistance.

Many people fall into the trap of false doctrine, as it's easy to misunderstand the Word and even easier to twist it to fit preconceived ideas.

We must handle God's Word carefully because our words have the power of life and death. We should not become hindrances or stumbling blocks to others' faith or our own.

The beliefs I've shared are based on non-denominational, born-again Christian teachings and the Christian Bible, which differ from the Catholic Church and other Christian denominations. Despite what some may say, there is a difference. We even have different Bibles, so I teach what was taught by Jesus and His disciples/witnesses.

Recognizing Him as the Messiah, we call Him Lord. I will heed His words, and He will guide me in all truth with insight, wisdom, and understanding.