Christian Courier
Short Articles On Sinner's Prayer Verses Baptism
 

More Preaching on Baptism?
Does the church need more preaching on baptism? How does one determine balance in gospel preaching? Jason Jackson addresses this issue in this week’s Penpoints.

What Is the Baptism of Fire?
What is the “baptism of fire” mentioned in Matthew 3:11?

Is "Re-Baptism" Scriptural?
What about the issue of “re-baptism”? Some say that “re-baptism” should never be practiced—no matter what the circumstances of one’s original baptism were. But what do the Scriptures say? Read this article and reflect upon the nature of your own baptism, in light of the biblical teaching regarding this divine ordinance.

The Truth on Baptism Should Not Be "Watered Down"
Baptism is a controversial subject in the religious world. How should it be performed? Who is a proper candidate for baptism? What is the purpose of baptism? Conflicting answers abound. Throw in a mix of emotions, and it seems even more confusing. Jason Jackson responds to a sincere reader and looks at the New Testament in order to clearly define this important topic that gets “watered down” by so many religious leaders.

Is Baptism a "Gospel" Obligation?
Some religious leaders deny that water baptism is an essential component in God’s plan for human redemption. Frequently, 1 Corinthians 1:17 is employed to argue this point. What is the truth regarding this matter?

Baptism: Essentials and Nonessentials
Baptism is a very important rite in the divine scheme of salvation. But it is imperative that one be able to distinguish between the “essential” and “nonessential” items associated with the command. Study this matter with us in this week’s Penpoints.

A Dispute About the Purpose of Baptism
Several questions and comments have been recently received relative to some of our material dealing with the purpose of “water baptism,” as that theme is set forth in the New Testament. Accordingly, in this Feature article, we wish to address a reader’s obviously sincere concerns.

Mormon Doctrine: Baptism for the Dead
An examination of the Mormon doctrine of vicarious baptism—the baptism for the dead.

The Corrupt "Incorruptible" Argument Against Baptism
A critic has disputed the biblical position that water baptism is requisite for the forgiveness of sins. He contends that one cannot be saved by a “corruptible” method. But “water” is corruptible. Thus, it has no place in the plan of redemption. Does the argument have merit? Read this article and see.

Was Cornelius Saved Without Baptism?
Was Cornelius, the Roman centurion of Acts chapter 10, saved before and without baptism?

What About the Baptism of Young Children?
How old should a child be before he is allowed to be baptized? Are we immersing some who are too young? What are some of the guidelines by which responsible decisions can be made? This article probes this issue.

What About Baptism on the Day of Pentecost?
Some allege that some 3, 000 people could not have been immersed on the day of Pentecost because: (a) There was not enough time for twelve apostles to accomplish that feat; (b) There was not enough water in Jerusalem to accommodate such a great multitude.

Baptism for the Dead: Revisited
Some while back we published an article reviewing the Mormon dogma of “baptism for the dead.” A distinguished professor at Stanford University disputes our argumentation. This is our response to the gentleman.

Ephesians 4:5 - One Baptism
What is the “one baptism” of Ephesians 4:5?

New Testament Baptism: In Water or the Spirit?
Some allege that the baptism commissioned by Christ was not a rite in water. Rather, they contend, it is an immersion in the Holy Spirit. What are the facts regarding this matter?

Is Holy Spirit Baptism Available Today?
Since the “baptism of the Holy Spirit” was bestowed upon the household of Cornelius, some wonder why the same experience cannot be received today. This article explains why Spirit “baptism” was an experience unique to the first century.

Is a "Word Formula" Required in Administering Baptism?
Jesus commanded his disciples to baptize “in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.” Some believe that these precise words must be pronounced at the time of one’s baptism. Others contend that baptism is to be “in the name of Jesus” only. What is the truth on this issue?

Why Does Romans 10:9-10 Not Mention Baptism?
A sincere student wants to know how one can read Romans 10:9-10, which mentions only faith and confession, and then contend that baptism is essential to salvation. Wayne Jackson discusses the “analogy of faith” principle.

Does Mark 16:16 Involve "Water" Baptism?
Is the baptism that is alluded to in Mark 16:16 a baptism in “water,” or is it of some other sort? Study this question with us.

Colossians 2:12 -- Baptism - A Working of God
The Bible denies that man is saved by works of human merit. But what about “works of God.” Study this commonly misunderstood issue with us.

LDS Baptism Annulled Due to Protest from Jews
A recent news item regarding the Mormon doctrine of “proxy baptism” highlights the inconsistencies of the practice and is the subject of this week’s Penpoints.

Does Archaeology Prove that Baptism May Be Administered by Sprinkling?
The claim is commonly made that ancient literary documents, supported by archaeological discoveries, sustain the idea that “sprinkling” was an accepted form of ancient “baptism.” Examine this issue with us in this month’s Feature article.

Does the Requirement of Baptism Compromise the Immutability of God?
Does the fact that God did not require water baptism for the remission of sins under the Mosaic system indicate that baptism must not be obligatory under the New Covenant? Does this compromise the Lord’s “immutability”? Study the question with us.

1 Corinthians 1:17 -- Paul Not Sent to Baptize
Did the apostle Paul teach that baptism was not necessary for salvation from sins? By no means. Study this passage with us.

Matthew 28:19-20 - Four Important Points About the Great Commission
Four important points from Matthew’s account of the Great Commission (Matt. 28:19-20).

The Matter of "Baptismal Regeneration"
Exactly what is “baptismal regeneration”? Is this doctrine scriptural?

Please Explain 1 Peter 3:21
Does baptism come before, or after, the salvation contemplated in 1 Peter 3:21?

"We Baptize Babies . . ." -- A Response
The fact is, infant baptism is no more than a human tradition. It has no higher authority than fallible man.

A Divine Platform for Christian Unity
In Paul’s letter to the saints in Ephesus, there is a marvelous platform for Christian unity. In this month’s Feature, Wayne Jackson discusses the components of the plan for sacred unity.

What Is the History of Infant Sprinkling?
When did the practice of infant sprinkling originate? Was it an apostolic practice? Or did it develop later? Let us look at the historical facts.

Can a Man "Justify" God?
The sacred historian Luke once declared that some of the Jews “justified God” when they accepted the immersion administered by John the Baptist (Lk. 7:29). How could this possibly be? Can a man “justify” God? Study this passage with us in this week’s Question/Answer session.

"Faith-Based Bathing" -- A Friendly Review
In the July issue of the well-known protestant journal, Christianity Today, Dr. Timothy George responds to a question regarding the relationship of baptism to salvation. Wayne Jackson comments on this intriguing essay.

The Assault upon Mark 16:16
The denominational community has long assaulted Mark 16:16 due to the simplicity of the passage in including baptism as a preliminary condition of salvation. Now, such attacks are coming even from certain “change agents” within the body of Christ. This article highlights one such recent effort.

Does Ezekiel 36:25 Prophesy Sprinkling?
A Roman Catholic gentleman suggests that Ezekiel 36:25 contains a prophecy of sprinkling as an acceptable mode of baptism. What is the biblical response to this assertion?

What About Salvation in 'Hard Cases'?
A recent news item highlighted a case where an inmate was refused the privilege of being immersed for the remission of his sins. A chorus of sectarian voices argued that “hard cases” like this negate the belief that baptism is a necessary condition for salvation. Is this quibble valid?

Was Jesus Immersed in the Jordan River?
Was Jesus Christ “immersed” in the Jordan River, or did John merely pour water upon the Lord’s head? Some scholars have attempted to argue that the case for Jesus’ “immersion” cannot be proved. But what does the evidence actually reveal?

The New Birth: Its Necessity and Composition
Have you been born again?

God Made No Distinction
Peter affirmed that God “made no distinction” between Jews and Gentiles with reference to the matter of salvation. In other words, both Jews and Gentiles were to be redeemed in precisely the same fashion.

The Role of "Works" in God's Plan of Redemption
Many sincere people labor under the illusion that “works” play no role whatever in Heaven’s plan of redemption? Is this a correct view? Actually, it is not. Study this theme with us in this week’s Penpoints article.

Ephesians 2:8 & Revelation 2:4-5 - The Church at Ephesus
Here are several important references to the church at Ephesus.

Acts 2:38 - Carroll Osburn and "For the Remission of Sins"
Many denominationalists have long argued that “for the remission of sins” in Acts 2:38 can mean “because of” (i.e. – be baptized because your sins have been remitted). But the same term is found in Matthew 26:28 – clearly indicating the meaning of the term.

Acts 10 & 11 - Was Cornelius Saved before Being Baptized?
Was Cornelius, the Roman centurion, saved before and without baptism? Some so claim.

Translating "Bapto"
In most modern versions of the New Testament, the Greek word baptizo is not translated at all; rather, it is anglicized, i.e., it is brought from the Greek language into English, almost letter-for-letter. Why do you suppose this non-translating procedure has been followed?

1 Timothy 1:16 - Believe unto Eternal Life
The Bible explicitly teaches that immersion is “for the remission of sins” (Acts 2:38).

Acts 2:21 -- Calling on the Lord's Name
All who wish to enjoy the remission of past sins will call on the name of the Lord by obeying the gospel plan of redemption. In no other way can one receive pardon.

Were John's Disciples Required To Be Re-immersed?
Were those disciples who were immersed by John the Baptizer required to be re-immersed on the day of Pentecost or thereafter? Some sincere Bible students maintain they were, but will the evidence really support that view?

Are Logic and Scripture Compatible?
Not only are logic and Scripture compatible, they are inseparable. If we understand the Bible correctly, and use valid reasoning, biblical truths are concluded.

The Folly of Extrapolating Analogy
Analogy is a legitimate method of reasoning. But it has its limitations. Unfortunately, many do not understand those limitations, hence abuse this form of logic.

An Exchange with Professor Wallace of the Dallas Seminary
In a previous Penpoints article, this writer inadvertently mischaracterized Professor Daniel Wallace’s religious affliation. He kindly corrected the matter. Here is my response.

Why Was Jesus Baptized?
The baptism of Jesus Christ is one of the truly epochal events within the Gospel records. It is chronicled by the synoptic writers in a total of only ten verses (five in Matthew, three in Mark, and two in Luke), and yet it is pivotal in that it signals the commencement of the Lord’s preaching ministry.

Acts 2:38 -- Not So Tough
Another argument which denies the essential role baptism plays in our salvation is answered.

The Great Commission According to Matthew
A discussion of the Great Commission as recorded in Matthew 28:18-20.

Who Was John the Baptist?
This article is an in-depth study of the great forerunner of Christ, John the baptist.

JUSTIFICATION: By Faith or Works?
Is justification from sin by faith or works? Does it result from neither, one as opposed to the other, or both?

“Scholastic” Subterfuge
When the plan of salvation is so easy to understand, why do some go to such great lengths to obscure it?

Does Mark 7:4 Authorize Sprinkling?
This article addresses a sectarian argument that attempts to justify “sprinkling” as a substitute for “immersion.”

Acts 8 - Philip Preached "the Christ"
Several passages in Acts provide us with first-century examples that help us to understand what it means to “preach Jesus.”

Dallas Professor Rebuffs Common Quibble on "Eis"
In a new volume on Greek grammar, Dr. Daniel Wallace (of the Dallas Theological Seminary), has made a monumental concession which devastates a common denominational rationalization relative to the meaning of eis in Acts 2:38.

Baby Dedication Ceremonies: Expediency or Innovation?
The practice of having “baby dedication” services is becoming increasingly popular within some churches of Christ? Is this ritual a mere expedient, or does it reflect an unwarranted innovation? This article addresses this growing controversy.

Three Quick Points from 1 Timothy 2:4
Paul encouraged Timothy to pray on behalf of all men. This brief verse contains a number of important points to note in the margin of your Bible.

The Rite of Circumcision
This week’s Notes briefly explores the use of “circumcision” in both the Old and New Testaments.

What About the "Sacraments"?
A reader has asked for a discussion of the “Seven Sacraments,” as publicized by the Roman Catholic Church. This week’s Q&A segment provides a brief overview of these institutions.

John Calvin and Grace
In this article, we wish to briefly comment upon John Calvin’s influence upon the religious community on the subject of “grace.” His ideas are circulated in several denominations, and, tragically, have found their way into the thinking of many people.

"New Hermeneutic" -- An Abandonment of Reason
The “new hermeneutic” is a false philosophy that undermines the very authority of the Bible.

Ethical Guidelines for Writers
This article discusses some of the ethical guidelines that Christian writers should follow.

Is Religion Going to the Dogs?
In an effort to attract larger crowds, some churches are now encouraging animal-lovers to bring their pets to worship services. In this week’s Penpoints, Wayne Jackson lampoons this ludicrous practice.

The "Tenses" of Salvation
Have you ever considered the fact that “salvation” can be a future, past, present, still future event, depending upon the vantage point from which one is speaking? Think about this “tense” issue with us.

What About the Thief on the Cross?
If the thief on the cross could be saved without being baptized, why cannot people today do the same?

Alexander Campbell and Christ's Church
Members of the Lord’s church are sometimes erroneously referred to as “Campbellites.” What exactly is behind such appellation?

1 John 1:7 - The Cleansing Fountain
When the conditions God are happily met, one may be assured of the merciful pardon of Heaven.

2 Timothy 2:1 -- The Domain of Grace
While it is certainly true that grace is a thrilling element in the divine scheme of things, it is not true that it is unconditionally dispensed, or that it is obtained merely by believing. Study this issue with us.

1 Timothy 4:14 - Timothy's Gift and the Elders
Exactly how did Timothy receive spiritual gifts? Study this misunderstood passage with us.

Acts 15:9 -- Hearts Cleansed by Faith
Some religious folks assume that this passage teaches that salvation is given upon the basis of faith alone—without additional acts of obedience. This is a tragic mistake.

Who Is a Christian?
The appellation of “Christian” is widely used as a category of people. But who, in facts, is (and who is not) a Christian?

Does the ESV Translation Promote "Faith Alone" Salvation?
Does the English Standard Version of the New Testament promote the doctrine of “salvation by faith alone” in Romans 10:9-10? No, but the translation is not as precise as it should be.

The Hope of Our Salvation
The Bible speaks of “the hope of our salvation.” Does this mean that we do not enjoy salvation now? This brief article addresses this matter.

A Rose Is a Rose; Or Is It?
Resistance to the biblical teaching that associates immersion in the name of Christ with the goal of “remission of sins” is a futile, yet on-going, endeavor. The “divisive” spirit never ceases attempting to twist the clear New Testament teaching (see Acts 2:38). In this week’s Penpoints, Jared Jackson demonstrates how a popular on-line, Bible study “tool” perpetuates a sectarian myth regarding baptism.

Miracles
What is a miracle? What is the purpose of miraculous signs? Are genuine miracles happening today? What about the “miracles” of the so-called modern “faith-healers”? Do these indicate a miraculous presence of the Spirit in modern times? Study this important topic.

Hank Hanegraaff and the "Christian Research Institute"
Over the years the folks at C.R.I. (Martin, Hanegraaff, et al.) have lustily pursued debate encounters with a host of cultists. They have engaged the heretical movements in verbal and written battles time and again, and begged for additional conflicts.

What Is a "Necessary Inference"?
Exactly what is a “necessary inference”? Is this form of reasoning a solid means of arriving at biblical truth? Many people do not think so. They contend that it is a slippery form of drawing rational conclusions. But this is not the case, as Wayne Jackson demonstrates in this article.

"All Good People Go to Heaven -- No Matter What."
The nation’s attention was riveted to the testimony of nine coal miners who had been trapped deep beneath the earth’s surface in Pennsylvania. One miner expressed concern for his soul, since he’d never been baptized. Another assured him that he was okay—but was he? Jason Jackson discusses this episode in this week’s Penpoints.

The Last Supper
Poignant words concisely spoken are echoed in worship assemblies every Lord’s Day. In remembrance of him, Christians recall the words of Jesus, “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many unto remission of sins” (Matt. 26:28). Let’s consider this wonderful declaration.

The Baptist Church: An Historical Perspective
I grew up among kindly people of the Baptist affiliation. My father’s family was of this persuasion. A more gracious, benevolent group of folks could scarcely have been found. It was heartbreaking, therefore, to eventually discover that the church of my ancestry was unknown to the New Testament.

Israel's Exodus from Egypt
One of the great scenes of Old Testament history is the exodus of Israel from Egyptian bondage. In this article, we wish to consider four aspects of this epochal event—the date of the exodus, the visitation of plagues upon Egypt, the Passover, and the passage through the Red Sea.

Hebrews 9:5 & Romans 3:25 - Christ Jesus: Our Propitiation
An interesting word in the Bible is “propitiation.” It is often translated “mercy-seat.” There is a connection between the imagery of the Old Testament system, and our Savior’s role in the redemption of man.

Does Divine Justification Exclude Human Obedience?
It is frequently alleged that “justification” is a process accomplished wholly by God, and any “obedience” on the part of man is excluded. But this theory, sincere as it may be, is seriously erroneous. Study this issue with us.

The Preposition "Eis" in Acts 2:38
It has long been known that denominationalists, welded to the theory of salvation by “faith alone,” repudiate the connection between baptism and the forgiveness of sins. Some, formally sound on this issue, now are capitulating to sectarian error. Take a brief look at this issue with us.

How to Go to Heaven -- Sincere, but Wrong
A kindly friend comes calling with a tract on “How To Have a Home In Heaven.” Unquestionably they are sincere. But is sincerity a valid substitute for truth? Jason Jackson addresses this issue.

Will Only “Your Bunch” Be Saved?
A querist wants to know, “Will only your bunch be saved?” Though the question usually is highly prejudicial, we will elicit two answers—his and ours.

The "Bapto" Family in the Septuagint
A sincere Bible student feels that the Greek translation of the Old Testament, the Septuagint, provides evidence that the Greek term 'bapto' may signify the actions of either sprinkling or pouring, as a baptismal rite. What does the evidence actually reveal?

Rich Nuggets in Romans 14:9
Tucked away in Romans 14:9 are some rich nuggets of truth that will enhance your faith.

Living in Terror
A sincere lady lives in terror because she fears that she is lost and cannot find peace of mind. This week’s Penpoints attempts to address her problem and guide her in the right direction.

"Belief" as Used in the Book of Acts
A study of the word “belief” as it is utilized in the book of Acts.

Hebrews 2:1 - Giving Heed to the Gospel
It is quite apparent that when one “gives heed” to the Lord’s will, he obeys the gospel.

The Use of the Preposition "Eis" in Matthew 12:41
In Acts 2:38 Peter contended that baptism is “for” (eis) the remission of sins. Since many religionists deny this biblical truth, they seek comfort in a supposed parallel that they imagine nullifies the force of eis in Acts 2:38. Some imagine they have found a solution to their theological problem in Matthew 12:41. But have they?

The Crimson Flow
It is not difficult to see how vital it is to understand the role of Jesus’ blood in God’s redemptive plan.

What Is the "Gift of the Holy Spirit" in Acts 2:38?
The expression “the gift of the Holy Spirit,” as found in Acts 2:38, has long been a matter of interest and discussion among the people of God. This month’s Feature article contains a consideration of this intriguing phrase.

Identifying the Church of the New Testament
Is it possible to rediscover the church of the New Testament in today’s world? Many sincere people have never considered this possibility. It is a thrilling thought. In a recent address, Wayne Jackson spoke of this matter.

Times That Try Our Souls
Division “contrary to the doctrine” of Christ is wrong (Rom. 16:17); but division, consistent with the Lord’s teaching, is not. Let faithful men and women work for a church that is united—but united upon the basis of biblical truth—not sectarian compromise (Jn. 17:17).

The Classification of Bible Commands
The commands found in the Bible may be classified in several ways to help our understanding.

The Roman Catholic - Lutheran Peace Treaty
On October 31st, 1999, in Augsburg, Germany, representatives of Roman Catholicism and Luthernism met to sign a “peace treaty” of sorts.

"Original Sin" and a Misapplied Passage
This essay addresses a verse commonly used in support of the false doctrine of “Original Sin.”

Lessons from the Catacombs of Rome
The catacombs located beneath the city of Rome are a wonder of antiquity which reveal much about the early adherents to the Christian faith.

A Response to a "Lutheran Pastor"
The belief that mankind is born with sin is without scriptural or logical foundation. Yet the teaching is quite common among denominationalists. The Lord’s church has been attacked for not upholding this ridiculous dogma.

Those "Testimonies" Regarding Miracles
Testimonies regarding alleged “supernatural” occurrences in folks’ lives are as frequent as they are fabulous. But are they to be given credibility, simply because someones says, “I experienced a miracle”? How does one measure the so-called “miraculous” events?

Was There Forgiveness Under the Mosaic Regime?
How does one explain the fact that “forgiveness” was promised to the ancient Israelites upon the basis of animal sacrifices, and yet the New Testament affirms that animal sacrifices could not remedy sin? This interesting question needs careful study.

The “Church Fathers” - Benefits and Abuses
The writings of the so-called “Church Fathers” are valuable sources of information for that period known as the “post-apostolic” age. Unfortunately, the literature frequently is also abused. Let us take a brief look at this matter.

Must One "Do" Something to Be Saved?
Why do some claim that one must “do” something, such as being baptized, in order to be saved?

The Philosophy of John Calvin
John Calvin was a tremendously influential person in Protestant history. But his Institutes reveals his philosophy towards the Holy Scriptures. Is this philosophy worthy of emulation?

Did All Christians in the First Century Possess Miraculous Gifts?
This article addresses the question as to whether all Christians in the first century were in possession of miraculous gifts.