Shalom, I am very much aware when a person becomes a minister, the denomination he goes into depends upon what he believes about water baptism. Sprinkled or dumped or many other variations. In Paul's ministry, water baptism is never required for the remission of sins. I realize that Paul did baptise some, but in his letter to the Corinthians, he states that he is glad that he has baptised so few, adding:
"The doctrine of a crucified Saviour, as advancing the glory of God,
17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.
18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God."
1 Cor., 17,18
It is significant to me that never once, in any of Paul's letters, does he command us to be baptised in water.
If believers, especially preachers, better understood the "one baptism" by which the "one spirit" baptises us into "one body" out unity in Christ would be so much better. IMO, once we put aside pre-conceived notions and human traditions, and search the Scriptures concerning "one baptism" with an open mind, we can find many enjoyable spiritual things.
Your brother in Christ,
James |
