Perrydox.com is devoted to the pursuit of truth, whether plain or paradoxical, whether simple or sublime, or simply absurd yet absolute.
One Truth Exalted Above Another
One truth exalted above all other truths becomes an untruth (N.T. Wright). Let’s discuss two truths exalted above others.
Baptism. Does baptism save? According to an apostle it does: 1 Peter 3:21: “Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you (not as the removal of dirt from the body, but the pledge of a good conscience toward God) through the resurrection of Jesus Christ….”
Faith. Does faith save? According to another apostle it does: Ephesians 2:8: “For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift — “
But notice neither apostle used the word “only”. Baptism done to babies who have no faith does not save. Faith that is inactive by not reenacting the death, burial, and resurrection is falls short of salvation.
Again, neither apostle used the word “only.” Baptism saves through the resurection of Jesus. Faith saves by grace. Just as none can be saved by God’s grace without Jesus’ resurrection; none can be saved by faith without baptism and vice versa.
So don’t exalt where God has not. Exalt God by taking Him at His word – every word.
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