He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who disbelieves will be condemned. Mark 16:16 WEB

In the time of John the Baptist and the ministry of Christ, new sects of Judaism baptized converts as soon as they affirmed the teaching of the sect. Notably, John the Baptist baptized Jesus even though John did not think himself worthy of the task. The wording “He who believes and is baptized” is controversial because some interpret this phrase to mean that without baptism, a believer is not saved.

John the Baptist said in Matthew 3:11, “I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. WEB” These words teach a new type of baptism. All who accept Christ in faith and truly live by the teaching of Christ are baptized in the Holy Spirit. This is likely the baptism referred to in Mark 16:16.  

Luke 23:43 records Jesus’ words to the thief who expressed faith while on the cross as “Assuredly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise. WEB” The Lord’s assurance that he would see the man in paradise is a strong example of salvation without water baptism. The condemned man expressed his belief. However, the circumstances of his death prevented water baptism. From this example, it appears that he who believes also receives his baptism from the Holy Spirit.

Salvation by Faith

Water baptism symbolizes repentance and the cleansing of our sins. It is a response to salvation and a public declaration of our faith in Christ. Jesus teaches that salvation requires belief. He says of himself in John 3:18, “ He who believes in him is not judged. He who doesn’t believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the one and only Son of God. WEB”

Further, Jesus teaches that obedience to the will of God proves belief. Christ says in Matthew 7:21, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter into the Kingdom of Heaven; but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. WEB” Salvation comes by faith in Christ. Repentance and obedience to the will of God proves our faith. 

Water baptism is part of following the example of Christ and a public declaration of our faith. Baptism in the Holy Spirit leads us to follow the will of God in salvation. Baptized in the Holy Spirit., he who believes and lives in obedience to the will of God is saved. 

Yesterday’s Devotional: Remain in My Word