This is a response I gave to a local news article on Baptism and Salvation:

The Bible Today

You can believe “all” of it

Why is there is so much diversity of teaching concerning baptism and the salvation of the soul? It's because we refuse to accept the whole of scripture; and therefore, we err by picking and choosing what ,we think, backs our pre-conceived ideas.

For instance; some claim the first part of the following verse and omit the rest of the scripture; Note “all” of Mark 16:16:

He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. (Mark 16:16).

Notice; The Lord does not say that if you are not baptized you will be damned. He is not saying that baptism is necessary to salvation, but that the person who is saved will be baptized. It is the rejection of Christ which brings eternal damnation:

“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him” (John 3:36)

For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. (Romans 10:10)

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephes. 2:8-9)

Yes, “All” scripture is true and does not contradict itself, to include Mark 16:16. When you pray and study the entire Word, you can believe "all" of it!

You see, salvation is via The Jesus Christ plus nothing.

No scripture, to include Mark 16:16, makes baptism a requirement for salvation.

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. (John 14:6)


Back to Answers