Controversies and Biblical Clarity on Baptism 

Time Stamp Map 0:00 - Introduction 1. 1:11 About BibleThinker 2. 2:46 What is baptism, what does it do, and what does it declare? 3. 5:23 Is baptism purely a symbol, or is there something spiritual that happens when a person is baptized? Does baptism affect salvation? 4. 6:35 When a person makes a profession of faith, should they be baptized right away, or should there be a waiting period for their leaders to observe their conduct before allowing them to be baptized? 5. 8:02 Is pedo-baptism (infant baptism) biblical? And is it biblical to draw a parallel between circumcision and baptism? 6. 13:51 When studying Scripture, what is the difference between a descriptive text and a prescriptive text? 7. 14:55 Time stamp #5 continued (circumcision vs. baptism) 8. 16:09 What does the New Testament say is the parallel we should draw from the Old Testament practice of circumcision? 9. 18:14 What passages of Scripture do pedo-baptists refer to in support of their belief? 10. 24:22 What is the difference between infant baptism and infant dedication? 11. 26:00 Even though baptism isn't salvific, is there any harm in baptizing infants just as a blessing? And do some people believe infants can, in fact, have saving faith already? How can we respond to that claim? 12. 30:53 What happens to infants when they die? Are baptized infants more likely to go to Heaven? 13. 32:11 Refuting the most powerful argument commonly used to defend infant baptism 14. 44:59 Should believers now who were baptized as an infant be re-baptized after truly coming to saving faith in Christ? 15. 49:10 Is it correct to baptize "in the name of Jesus," or "in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit"? And should a person be re-baptized if a different formula was used during their baptism? 16. 53:56 Who can baptize people? 17. 59:00 Closing thoughts

This video reminded me of a good joke. Enjoy. A priest, a minister, and a rabbi want to see who’s best at his job. So they each go into the woods, find a bear, and attempt to convert it. Later they get together. The priest begins: “When I found the bear, I read to him from the Catechism and sprinkled him with holy water. Next week is his First Communion.” “I found a bear by the stream,” says the minister, “and preached God’s holy word. The bear was so mesmerized that he let me baptize him.” They both look down at the rabbi, who is lying on a gurney in a body cast. “Looking back,” he says, “maybe I shouldn’t have started with the circumcision.” :)

Why is the thumbnail so funny to me lol😂??God bless you brother Mike🙏🏾💯

My husband got saved in December 2018 and passed away February 2019. The pastor and doctor said it would kill him with all his tubes to get baptized. His family disagreed with me but the pastor and doctor both told him it was fine. He made a public profession of faith.

"You go in as a sinner and come out as a wet sinner." 😂 I haven't watched much of your older content! Thanks for reposting!

I was baptized this past Saturday! Praise God! If anyone here is a born again in Christ and hasn’t gotten baptized yet, I encourage you to get baptized! It’s an amazing way to show your obedience to Christ publicly and will strengthen your faith! Thanks Mike for your discernment. -Jakob

When I went to the Presbyterian Church, the pastor made a strong statement at infant baptisms that this was not a baptism as a declaration of faith, but the promise of the parents and church to help this child grown in faith. If the child eventually has faith in Christ, they will confirm it during confirmation. I appreciated this clarity, but saw no reason for calling it baptism when a dedication of the child would have sufficed.

Great video. I was baptized December 1, 1995 as an adult in my church. As a former Roman Catholic I was baptized as an infant according to the Roman Catholic rite. I was not saved until I was 30 and this a work of the Holy Spirit. Once I understood the biblical teaching and under the leadership of godly people I was baptized and I believe God was glorified and the church edified. Keep up the good work.

I am a huuuuge fan of time stamps! Thanks for going above and beyond to help bring clarity to those of us who have all these burning questions!

Thank you so much for time stamps. Can't tell you how helpful they are!!

Thank you Mike. I've been thinking about this a lot over the past half a year. Looking forward to watching this

What a phenomenal discussion, thanks for sharing this Mike, it’s definitely still a relevant topic!

Great conversation. I think you should invite a well studied lutheran to weigh in on infant baptism, there were many assumptions made about what people believe about infant baptism that were not completely accurate. Faith as a gift from God is a major component driving that belief, not necessarily relating it to circumcision. Why not talk about this with someone who holds the opposite viewpoint?

20k subs. You've come a long way!

Love your channel and Remnant Radio, yet had somehow missed this. Great video. My brother is preparing to be baptized, so I appreciate this!

I loved this discussion! Thank you gentlemen! Always a tremendous blessing to listen to you teach Pastor Mike! God bless you brother! 😌🙏✝️⚓️🕊🤍

Only 19,000 subs in 2018 to almost 300k now. Keep up the great work Mike.

How are your thumbnails always so good 😂 God bless you pastor Mike .

Thank you, thank you, thank you for this video! It is, by far, the most helpful discussion I've ever heard on this topic!!!

I enjoyed the discussion and thoughtful commentary, Mike. I'm new to your channel and enjoy your content. Keep up the good work.

Mike, dear brother, I hope you are well. I want you to know that I respect you deeply and your biblical teachings. I admire your willingness to seek to think as biblically as possible. That’s why it’s hard to write this note. (and I ask your grace and that of any others who might read it and your forgiveness if I slight you unjustly in any way) Essentially, I think that the “think biblically” goal is being missed when it comes to this discussion on baptism. The New Testament is replete with references to baptism- all of which give clear insight and solid context for understanding those insights. But the discussion seemed to revolve around ideas about baptism instead of focusing on the myriad New Testament references. Also, I was dismayed to hear your definition of what baptism is, your belief that baptism is symbolic, and that you reject baptism's connection to salvation. At minute 2:46 you answer “What is baptism?” Yet, in answering it, you use no scripture to uphold your definition. Instead, you use words like “identify” with Christ and ideas like “to become a part of a church.” (not only that but Jeff’s discussion about a person needing to go through a time of testing before it is decided they are ready to be baptized- minutes 4-5- is not thinking biblically. In the New Testament people were baptized right away, without consideration of their “seriousness” in making the decision) Then, when you speak at minute 5:23 of baptism being a “symbol” and jump right into the idea that baptism has nothing to do with salvation the “think biblically” realm has been left and the “think traditionally” realm has been entered. The argument you make about a wedding ring is a wholly manmade idea to explain baptism instead of thinking biblically about it. How can I say that? Well, first of all, in your answer, you give no definitive scriptural references to baptism being “symbolic,” (like a wedding ring) and this is because there are none. Nothing explicitly nor implicitly says that baptism is symbolic. Second, it isn’t biblical thinking because the clear NT teaching on baptism is that it is something that has actual consequence in the life of a believer, it is connected to salvation. Here are a few examples relative to baptism as symbol and its connection to salvation (and of course these are limited because of the forum). First, Acts 2:38. Peter preaches and is listeners are “cut to the heart.” And in response to their heart conviction (and along with it a faith that Christ is as great as they are hearing He is), they say, “What should we do?” Peter’s response is clear and concise, “Repent and be baptized every one of you for the forgiveness of sin and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” There is no ambiguity in this- Peter connects repentance AND baptism to forgiveness of sin and receiving the Holy Spirit. There is no way around this, except if one starts to refer to tradition. But if one thinks biblically, it can’t be missed that in no way did Peter think baptism to be something symbolic or disconnected from salvation but, on the contrary, something that is intricately involved in the act of faith, repentance, forgiveness of sin and receiving the Holy Spirit. (I would to also note that Josh did mentioned Acts 2:36-39 and paraphrased it, but missed an essential part- the direct connection of forgiveness of sin, receiving the Holy Spirit, and baptism. I’m not sure why he did that.) Another place that can enlighten us to think biblically about baptism in Romans 6. You know the passage well, I’m sure. Paul says, “Don’t you know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus have been baptized into His death? Therefore, we have been buried with Him through baptism so that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.” The thing is, while this text is used by people as a way to say that baptism is symbolic of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection, Paul’s language isn’t like that. He doesn’t say “baptism is a symbol of these things.” He says that when you were physically baptized it was a “literal” (not symbolic) baptism into Christ’s death, burial and resurrection. And, conversely, it could be said that *without baptism* the actual work of Christ wouldn’t be happening in one’s life. There is something “real” about what happens when a person is baptized by faith in Christ, not something symbolic. We don’t find symbolism in this Romans text but we do find symbolism in the tradition that grew from the text. Another text is with Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8). Philip explains Christ to him through Isaiah. And clearly, the eunuch gets it and believes it. Once having done so, water is seen and the eunuch himself exclaims, “Here is water, what keeps me from being baptized?” And they stopped and the eunuch was baptized. Now, there’s no “theology” being taught here necessarily but there is something so “real” about the reality of the connection of baptism and the new life that comes with faith in Christ that the eunuch couldn’t wait to get it done. I think it’s because Philip has taught him of baptism's essentiality, something he didn’t see as “symbolic” but literal, something that, if not done, would keep one from the fullness of salvation. One more example (although there are many more) is found in 1st Peter. In chapter 3 Peter writes about Noah and his family being “safely brought through the water.” And then Peter says this, “Corresponding to this, baptism now saves you. Not the removal of dirt from the flesh but an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.” Now, there *is* some theology going on here. Something deep and abiding and literal, not symbolic. But my point here isn’t to make a rule “everyone who gets baptized is saved.” My point is to show that biblical thinking requires us to *deal with* this text and to admit that far from being symbolic, baptism plays an essential and intricate role in our “safely being brought” to God’s desired destination for us, salvation and eternal life. My dear brother, I do not expect that many will listen to what I have written. But I hope that it can be seen that this short explanation is far closer to biblical thinking than many of the explanations being used in this video. God bless you in your ministry and may we ALL continue to do the hard work of humbly arriving at a place where we find agreement, as Paul wrote to the Corinthians, in chapter 1. God bless you!

42:. . It's not only repeating. Depending on the one teaching. I was personally preached by a children's missionary. When he asked if I wanted to pray for forgiveness I said no. Butt several days later I did hit my younger brother, then I knew I had sinned, so I went to my room, asked fort forgiveness, Andy asked Jesus into my heart. Then went and told my mother, who reassured me and taught me from there. I was 3 1/2 years old. So small children can believe. I'm so glad my parents believed me and discipled, nobody could have imagined how sick I would get immediately after, when I was near death at least no 3 times,. Had 6 surgeries and this terrible infections. I loved the stories of my Bible with the questions, and talked all day long about heaven, all this before I was six.

That was so pleasant to watch and very interesting. Thank you for sharing it on your own channel

Continue to put out great content Mike!

When a 3-year-old says “You have broken God’s Law”-that’s precious!!! 😁🙌

“You and your offspring” sounds to me like whenever you are blessed by God with offspring, bring ‘em. Bring ‘em right on. Then teach them to cooperate with their baptismal graces as they grow.

Really great and helpful discussion! Thank you for sharing this, Mike!

I appreciate your views on this important topic. One thing that I struggle with in the explanation here is the use of the word and idea “symbol.” While I understand why some consider baptism to be a symbol, I’m not convinced that the Bible backs this up. Here is a quick explanation of why: Acts 2:38 and Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. On Pentecost, Peter tied the idea of baptism to salvation. Not that you can’t mess it up with sin later, but Peter placed priority on repent (change) AND baptism and tied this to the gift, which is salvation. 1 Peter 3:21 backs this up - Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, I am not saying that baptism is what provides salvation, but there is a clear priority expressed that make baptism more than just a symbol. Then there is this: Mark 16:16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. Not a symbol. A priority. And when Jesus was baptized by John the Baptizer, was that a symbol? God’s response seems to indicate it was more important: Matt 3: 16-17 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” The best argument for baptism being a symbol is actually scripture that seems to argue that baptism is actually a cleanser, 1 Peter 3:21. I appreciate that the words in this video place importance on baptism and I don’t question your knowledge or your hunger for spiritual knowledge. But baptism is not like a wedding ring and there is strong Bible evidence that it is much more than a symbol.

i wanted my children baptised as soon as possible. Just baptize them!

Mike, I really hope you don't ever feel the need to change the thumbnail. It's hilarious. That aside, love your content. I really get a lot from your channel

Mike does really good critiques, feel so informed and educated very calming when speaking and clear ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Q: Hi Mike, how did John the Baptist come up with the practice of baptism? Was there some OT roots to it that may have inspired him?

That's definitely an interesting discussion. I was baptised as a child because I grew up Catholic, but I never believed until I got much older.

And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2:38 ESV Baptism is how you receive forgiveness of sin and the gift of the Holy Spirit.

I was actually thinking of this today and had pretty much the same thought, that you voiced. Some of which I haven't ever thought of before today .

Excellent video! Mike Winger thank you for your faithfulness sir!

1 Peter 3:21, NIV: "and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also--not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ,"

Not to bring strife or too much debate, but I struggle with what is being said here vs the bible about baptism. There is some incongruence.

As a Presbyterian, I still enjoy hearing and learning. Great discussion for my husband and I.

Great conversation and teaching Mike! Thanks!

I was raised a member of the Salvation Army and so was raised with the presumption that nonadherence towards baptism was a-okay. I was then baptized in a calvinistic southern baptist church when I was 20 years old. Fourish years later, I'm an Anglican who is completely for paedobaptism. I would never say that the household argument is the strongest, personally, I think it is the weakest by far. The New and Greater Covenant argument and the Baptismal Regeneration angle is much much stronger in my opinion. When I flipped from credo to paedo on this, I spent several days praying, fasting, and writing out all the verses on baptism and tried to argue both sides before finally landing on the infant baptism perspective. I love your content here on RU-vid Mike Winger, but I really wish that you would have a dialogue with a Lutheran or an Anglican to better demonstrate the other side.

Is there a video of a discussion with someone who disagrees with your position? I feel like videos that create an echo chamber are not super helpful just because we don't see different perspectives 🤔 It just ends up reinforcing what everyone already believes

I truly believe your faith is stirctly between GOD and us as individuals, I love GOD with all of my heart and I truly know that I do NOT deserve Eternal Life wih HIM but only through HIS Mercy, I will be with HIM in Heaven and GOD help those who don't believe that I will reach Heaven because that is like unto those of the Pharisees and Saducceees. I truly love your work Pastor Mike! GOD Bless you all, as you are about saving Souls and not about religion. Love from your sister in Christ, Julie. Merry Christmas and a Happy new year to you all!🙏

I enjoyed this discussion so much! Thanks fellas

How young can a child be to really 'believe'? My morher listened to the 15 or 30 minute Back to the Bible broadcast daily and I heard this solid Bible teaching and invitation to Christ as a preschooler. At 4 or 5 I understood that Jesus died for me because I wasn't always good and I wanted to be obedient to please Him. I believe i was saved then with a child's concept of Savior and Lord which matured with my age and understanding. I made recommitments to following him over the years and was baptized at 17. Mike, your Bible based teaching is a blessing ans sooo necessary these days. God bless you.

This is the greatest thumbnail for a RU-vid video EVER. I'm dead. LOL

so glad you uploaded this. it made me laugh and learn. good stuff brother.

Mike, what do you think about baptism or baptizing again in terms of church authority?

All the earliest Christians became disciples as adults, therefore adult baptism. But did the sign of baptism mean that they were all faithful to the end? Did it mean that they understood everything about discipleship when they were baptized? What about those who were saved across time without baptism (e.g., the thief on the cross, those under the old covenant, the believers before Abraham)? What about OT believers who were dedicated to the Lord at birth (Samuel, Samson)? In the end, it's about an outward sign of inward faith, even if the sign precedes the faith by a period of time. In God's time, childhood to adulthood is nothing. This is one of those things that it is not worth berating each other over. What matters is faith in Christ and what he accomplished at Calvary. Raising children to seek that relationship with Christ is the important thing. After that, we all must ask forgiveness for the many times we are wrong about many things.

Thanks for covering this. I was raised United Methodist and I had been “baptized” (sprinkled) as a baby. I wish my parents never would’ve done that. Once I was a senior in high school I was saved and deeply wanted to be baptized. The UMC would not allow me to be “re baptized” but I could do a “remembrance of my baptism” by touching holy water in a special ceremony. That seemed odd to me since I was an infant when I was baptized and there was no way I could possibly “remember” that. I remember feeling so discouraged. I few months later at a youth group pool party, I was telling my new minister about my frustration and he baptized me right then and there. It was a beautiful moment! Now I have two children of my own and my husband and I go to a church that doesn’t do infant baptisms. Instead we did a baby dedication and stood in front of our church family and they all prayed over our children and our family. It was a mutual agreement with my church family in return committing to love and guide us as we raise our children. It was beautiful.

You are an inspiration for me Mike! I would LOVE to collab with you one day!

Good morning pastor Mike I love you sincerity and passion for God and His word, I love your teachings had help me to grow, is there a specific age to say people are able to believe and can be baptised

I've always considered infant baptism to be one of those things God allows us to do. It is neither right nor wrong. If it is a conviction that you hold you must do or not do it. I think the Bible gives us justification that it can be done but that it does not need to be done at that age.

I think that we shouldn't be surprised that John the Baptist (whose mission was ordained before his birth and foretold by the angel Gabriel!) leapt in the womb, when in the presence of the Messiah (!!!), and might consider that a special case. I mean, we had angels showing up *all over the place,* delivering messages about the events unfolding.

Great topic Mike 👍🏼

G'day, Gentlemen! At 28:47, by "trusted from my youth", does the psalmist mean infancy or childhood?

I think Jeff's point about having new believers demonstrate their faith and take it seriously makes sense when it comes to children raised in church. In that environment, a child would just be outright pressured to get baptized and may not have sincerity. (Not saying to never do it. But be wary). What Mike was saying about baptizing right away seems more applicable to adult/teenaged converts. So, yeah, I'm saying they were both right. 8 minutes in and this video is already great 😁

What about the scriptures that speak about when the whole house was baptized (Acts 16:15, 33). I don't agree with infant baptism but I always wondered about these scriptures.

This was really good and well balanced!

Very educational! Thank you and God bless!

I was baptized at 7 and rebaptized at 24. In the same church and the same baptismal tank. My childlike faith at 7 was lost in my teen years and was basically in outright rebellion. When the Lord showed up in my life in a profound way, (through a dream) the Holy Spirit convicted me of my sin and I feel to floor in tears and repentance and immediately seen the world in a new lens and put away my old selfish ways. This moved me to get rebaptized and recommit my life to the Lord with full acknowledgement of my sin and need for a saviour and the cost involved in wearing the name of Christ. Was it necessary to get rebaptized? You could argue all I needed to do was repent and believe, however my decision and public profession meant so much more as an adult than as a child. I am saved by his Grace and forgiveness, my baptism was an outward act of obedience and acknowledgment of his lordship over my life. PS: this was in a Church of Christ that holds to a theology that you need baptism in order to be saved. I disagree with that theology based on scripture but still consider them brothers and sisters and still attend that church.

I'm ex catholic and have been baptised as a Christian since. On twitter there is a continuous debate going on between catholic and another Christian where he is saying it has to be full body immersion is this true? I was fully immersed but I thought crucial thing was repentance before baptism? Thanks Niamh

Thanks for the video Mike.

Mike, I love the content, but luv the pics!

Thank you for sharing, I've been trying to solidify a biblical view of ordinances vs sacraments. I would have loved to have seen more time spent on if baptism saves, especially while looking at 1 Peter 3:18-22 which so far I've seen as the strongest biblical argument for baptism being an active part of salvation.

For anyone who's wondering: the text on the frame at 0:32 is "gummy bears" with an arrow pointing toward the gummy bears.

Where does the Bible say baptism is a symbol? Or that it is a public profession of faith? I struggled to find that teaching as a baptist

Ive been baptized in the holy ghost is water baptizim super nessisary afterwards? I pray in tongues receive words from the holy spirit and heal the sick. But i havent had a water baptism yet.

I find it interesting that this hour-long video was posted only 45 minutes ago, yet it already has a few “dislikes.” Seems like some people are not taking time to watch and carefully consider what is being said.

46:00 that is exactly the case with me. I was born again recently and I want to be baptized again. The one when I was seven doesn't really count in my mind because I didn't know why it was important.

What does Mike think of the u-tube video on Real Bible Belivers posted on 6-25 stating there in only one real Bible KJV?

Hello! I’ve heard of parents of people with disabilities have their kids baptized to “cover them” so to speak. Thoughts?

Baptizing Households Acts 16:15 After she [Lydia] and her household were baptized, she urged us, “If you consider me a believer in the Lord, come and stay at my house.” And she persuaded us. Acts 16:31 They said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved-you and your household.” 32 And they spoke the word of the Lord to him along with everyone in his house. 33 He took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds. Right away he and all his family were baptized. 34 He brought them into his house, set a meal before them, and rejoiced because he had come to believe in God with his entire household. 1 Corinthians 1:14 I [Paul] thank God that I baptized none of you except Crispus and Gaius, 15 so that no one can say you were baptized in my name. 16 I did, in fact, baptize the household of Stephanas; beyond that, I don’t recall if I baptized anyone else. 17 For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel-not with eloquent wisdom, so that the cross of Christ will not be emptied of its effect. He [Jesus] came to save all through himself; all, I say, who through him are reborn in God: infants, and children, and youths, and old men. Therefore he passed through every age, becoming an infant for infants, sanctifying infants; a child for children, sanctifying those who are of that age . . . [so that] he might be the perfect teacher in all things, perfect not only in respect to the setting forth of truth, perfect also in respect to relative age. Irenaeus Against Heresies 2:22:4, A.D. 189 Baptize first the children, and if they can speak for themselves let them do so. Otherwise, let their parents or other relatives speak for them. Hippolytus The Apostolic Tradition 21:16, A.D. 215 The Church received from the apostles the tradition of giving baptism even to infants. The apostles, to whom were committed the secrets of the divine sacraments, knew there are in everyone innate strains of [original] sin, which must be washed away through water and the Spirit. Origen Commentaries on Romans 5:9, A.D. 248 If, in the case of the worst sinners and those who formerly sinned much against God, when afterwards they believe, the remission of their sins is granted and no one is held back from baptism and grace, how much more, then, should an infant not be held back, who, having but recently been born, has done no sin, except that, born of the flesh according to Adam, he has contracted the contagion of that old death from his first being born. For this very reason does he [an infant] approach more easily to receive the remission of sins: because the sins forgiven him are not his own but those of another. Cyprian of Carthage ibid., 58:5 Entrance Into A Covenant Colossians 2:11 You were also circumcised in him with a circumcision not done with hands, by putting off the body of flesh, in the circumcision of Christ, 12 when you were buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead. 13 And when you were dead in trespasses and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, he made you alive with him and forgave us all our trespasses. 14 He erased the certificate of debt, with its obligations, that was against us and opposed to us, and has taken it away by nailing it to the cross. Genesis 17:26 On that very day Abraham and his son Ishmael were circumcised. 27 And all the men of his household-whether born in his household or purchased from a foreigner-were circumcised with him. As to what pertains to the case of infants: You [Fidus] said that they ought not to be baptized within the second or third day after their birth, that the old law of circumcision must be taken into consideration, and that you did not think that one should be baptized and sanctified within the eighth day after his birth. In our council it seemed to us far otherwise. No one agreed to the course which you thought should be taken. Rather, we all judge that the mercy and grace of God ought to be denied to no man born. Cyprian of Carthage Letters 58:2, A.D. 253 When Believers are Baptized Acts 2:38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, each of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is for you and for your children, and for all who are far off, as many as the Lord our God will call.” Mark 16:15 Then he said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. 16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. Forgiveness of Sins Acts 22:16 And now, why are you delaying? Get up and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on his name.’ Mark 16:16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. Acts 2:36 “Therefore let all the house of Israel know with certainty that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” Call to Repentance 37 When they heard this, they were pierced to the heart and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Brothers, what should we do?" 38 Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, each of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is for you and for your children, and for all who are far off, as many as the Lord our God will call." 40 With many other words he testified and strongly urged them, saying, "Be saved from this corrupt generation!" 41 So those who accepted his message were baptized, and that day about three thousand people were added to them. Accordingly the believer, through great discipline, divesting himself of the passions, passes to the mansion which is better than the former one, viz., to the greatest torment, taking with him the characteristic of repentance from the sins he has committed after baptism. Clement of Alexandria (150-215) The Stromata Book 6 Salvation Titus 3:4 But when the kindness of God our Savior and his love for mankind appeared, 5 he saved us - not by works of righteousness that we had done, but according to his mercy - through the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit. 1 Peter 3:21 Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you (not as the removal of dirt from the body, but the pledge l of a good conscience toward God) through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,

As a Lutheran I don't agree with your views on Baptism, but I appreciate you taking the time to explain your opinion and share it :D It seems like the assumption was that Baptism is a work we do, but I think the biblical position is that Baptism is a work that God does to us. 1 Peter 3:21 "Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you" Galatians 3:27 "all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ" Matthew 28:19 "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit" Matthew 19:14 "Let the children come to Me and do not hinder them, for the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to such as these"

@Mike Winger - what is the purpose of the baptism after all? Is it just a simbolic action to act like Jesus? Is is for the forgiveness of the sins? Is it a key to entering in the kingdom of God and receiving the Holy Spirit?

Appreciate the humility of the hosts of this discussion though you are all very knowledgeable biblically. We all see in a mirror dimly.

After the whole "Prophetic Standards" fiasco, I just do not trust the Remnant Radio guys on theology.

I got baptized when I was a baby ( was raised orthodox) but not for salvation. I think was presumed that you bring your child to God and because you are God's people that your child will then become God's people. And was considered the child was blessed and PROTECTED When I got saved as an adult I wanted to get baptized again but my church (not orthodox) said it is not necessary as I was already welcomed in God's family with the first baptism. And that will make me kind of reject the first one which was done in faith and from the heart. Although I was disappointed I realized I don't need another one (doesn't mean I can't) and I am grateful I had that one even if I don't remember I know now that God saw the heart of my family and welcomed me and loved me anyway

I may be wrong (if I remember to, I’ll ask Jesus when I see him), but I feel like I’ve always had faith in God, possibly even as an infant, idk. But the point when I asked Jesus into my heart, I was 4 and I remember it very clearly. I’m Baptist (though I don’t agree with 100% of Baptist theology) and my whole family went to one of those “hell” plays at my grandma’s church. That was the night when I first felt the fear of God. When they had the altar call at the end, I was bawling because I didn’t want to go to hell, and my mom tried to stop me, but I ran up to the altar by myself and there asked Jesus into my heart. I don’t necessarily know if the sinners prayer is biblical or not, but I was very sincere nonetheless. I have always looked on that moment as the day I got saved. I didn’t get baptized until I was 10 because my mom and preacher wouldn’t let me, and when they finally did, I think it was partly because I had pestered them about it for years lol. At 27, I look back on that night and know that the Holy Spirit was working on me even back then. In my teen years and most of my twenties, I strayed from the path and lived more for my flesh than God, but I always believed. I had my doubts, and about the time I was 18-19, what I learned in school didn’t match up with the Bible, and I had a crisis. This led me into studying more and more about creation, and the Lord greatly strengthened my faith through it. My twenties so far could be summed up as periodic highs and very low lows. But about a year and a half ago something changed, God convicted me of my sin and though I bucked it for a long time, He ultimately led me to a life where now I feel much more secure in my relationship with Him, like when I was a kid. I’m so thankful to God, He’s given me so many confirmations and really has shown me he loves me, bless Him. I don’t deserve any of it, and can’t praise him enough. He uses the foolish to confound the wise, my life is a living testimony of His grace, mercy, and love. I owe more than I could ever achieve in all eternity to God. Every ounce of me isn’t enough, and I thank him for his gift in being my savior, and also my greatest friend. When my fiancée ghosted me after our 5 year anniversary in August 2023, it ripped my heart out. I still haven’t fully healed from it. But though the one person I thought would never do it abandoned me, He was still there. My relationship with Him has strengthened significantly, and I have realized that Jesus truly is the only person who has never hurt me. Everything He has done in my life has been in my best interest. Me, a filthy wretch. Makes me wanna bawl all over again. How great is our God!?!

This was a great discussion. It has inspired me to dig deeper in my own research of Biblical doctrines. The questions raised and topics discussed serve as a great example of how to biblically analyze an issue, as well as how to approach a topic with grace and love to communicate the truth. Thanks to all involved. God bless!

St Augustine: “The custom of Mother Church in baptizing infants is certainly not to be scorned, nor is it to be regarded in any way as superfluous, nor is it to be believed that its tradition is anything except apostolic.” Hippolytus: ““Baptize first the children, and if they can speak for themselves let them do so. Otherwise, let their parents or other relatives speak for them” (The Apostolic Tradition 21:16 [A.D. 215]).

I think it’s interesting that you focused on the idea of households being baptized but never addressed 1John 3:21 “baptism now saves you “ it’s hard to make the argument that baptism has no salvivic effect when the Bible literally says the opposite. I also disagree that you can separate the question of “does baptism save” and “should we baptize infants” if baptism does save then we absolutely should baptize infants because why would we deny our children that effect of baptism. To you point about baptizing infants is equivalent to baptizing people who don’t believe in God/Jesus. Similarly we would not perform surgery on an adult who does not consent to the procedure but we would never deny a life saving surgery to an infant on the basis that they don’t consent to the surgery, we allow their parents to consent on their behalf TO SAVE THEM.

not to be a false witness is also very important, would any of you go to a court and wintness in my behalf that I'm a father of an infant, without knowing me, just because someone told you that everyone in my house baptized?

50:30 - Renewal of Baptism. I did so as an adult because when I was originally Baptized as a kid, I wanted to go swimming in church like everyone else who got baptized. Yes, I believed but didn't want to say it out loud in front of everyone because I was too shy. But I eventually went swimming in church for all of 60 seconds and I was happy. My renewal was to acknowledge that I understood why I needed to be Baptized and the serious nature of Jesus's command for us to follow Him in Baptism.

Baptizo does NOT mean immersion. Why does baptists always say this? I often hear this spoken of like it is an unquestenable fact. But just look in a good greek dictionary and you will see that it does not mainly mean immersion. Yes often when something is baptized it’s also immersed but what sepperates the word bapto(often translated dipping) from baptizo is not that something that is dipped is not fully immersed. The thing you want to state by using the word baptizo instead of bapto is that the dipping caused a permanent effect. For example: The Romans called spears and arrows with poison, baptized spears. The whole spear was off course not dipped in the poison, just the tip. But the dipping caused the spear to change from normal to poisonous. The clearest and best example if you want to understand the meaning of baptizo is a text from the Greek poet and physician Nicander, who lived about 200 B.C. It is a recipe for making pickles and is helpful because it uses both words. Nicander says that in order to make a pickle, the vegetable should first be 'dipped' (baptô) into boiling water and then 'baptised' (baptizô) in the vinegar solution. Both verbs concern the immersing of vegetables in a solution. But the first is temporary. The second, the act of baptising the vegetable, produces a permanent change. Baptizo is also used in a non-immersion way in NT. Mark 7:3-4 Now in holding to the tradition of the elders, the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat until they wash their hands ceremonially. 4And on returning from the market, they do not eat unless they wash(baptizo). And there are many other traditions for them to observe, including the washing of cups, pitchers, kettles, and couches for dining. it is not likely that all the pharisees and the jews got fully immersed every time they came home from the market. Most people did not have conditions for that. In fact we know that these cleansing acts was made by pouring water, often from large pots. (see John 2:6) Luke 11:37-38 As Jesus was speaking, a Pharisee invited Him to dine with him; so He went in and reclined at the table. 38 But the Pharisee was surprised to see that Jesus did not first wash(baptizo) before the meal. Same here. Do we actually asume that the pharise expected Jesus to “fully immerse” before having a lunch? No, he expected Jesus to do the ritual washing from the “tradition of the elders”. Why is the word baptizo used in these 2 texts? Because they speak of a ritual washing. Where the one being washed went from unclean to clean. The washing produced a change just like Nicanders vinegar. This is why it was no big deal for christians to baptize by pouring water like didache speaks about. Immersion was still norm but was never seen as a question of validity. Didache is believed to have been written before tha last apostle died so it confirms that this pracitce existed extremely early. . Summery: Stop saying baptizo means immersion and never question someones baptism because they were not fully immersed.

Love your stuff, Mike! First of all, I'm not arguing for paedobaptism. I don't believe that can be biblically supported very well. However, I do have a question/challenge. At 11:32, you ask, "Where in the NT does it say the sign of being in the new covenant is baptism?" However, here's my pushback. Romans 2:29 (which you reference later) says, "circumcision is that which is of the heart, by the Spirit-". And Colossians 2:11-12 says "And in Him you were also circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, in the removal of the body of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ; having been buried with Him in baptism, in which you were also raised up with Him through faith in the working of God who raised Him from the dead." I don't believe this to be eisegesis, but rather to be a proper interpretation of two statements made on the same topic by the same author. While it does not explicitly say baptism is the new sign of the covenant, it does seem to suggest an intense link between circumcision and baptism here. Many of our doctrines are not explicitly stated in Scripture but are inferentially exegeted. Why is that not the case here? There are SO many passages (like the ones above) which suggest what God accomplishes in us through baptism is more than a public confession of our faith, but rather something deeply spiritual and powerful. My main concern is that we might be ignoring what Scripture says on baptism in order to reinforce our understanding of Sola Gratia. In seeking to make sense of all Scripture, I feel trapped between one camp that says, "Baptism is nothing more than a symbol that accomplishes nothing" and another that says, "Baptism is necessary for salvation." How are we to make sense of all that the Bible says on baptism (Acts 2:38, 1 Peter 3:21, Acts 22:16, Galatians 3:27, etc.)? Again, I love your stuff and am trying to think biblically through everything (see what I did there?)! I hope you know how much God blesses me through your kindness and carefulness with His word. Keep on preaching, bro.

What a good podcast!

I was once told how baptism and kingdom theology are connected. What are your thoughts?

So glad you are discussing baptism. It’s so important as some denominations believe that not only baptism but baptism in Jesus name is a matter of salvation. Acts 2:38 actually does say believe and be baptised in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

I am still working through this so bare with me if it is answered in the video. What is the response to the understanding that the church fathers near universally taught that baptism saves?

One question... Act 1:5 give a contrary to what Jesus christ see as baptism.. Do the disciples got it wrong and misinterpreted what true new testament baptism mean? Why will Jesus christ make the comparison from water to holy spirit?

I didn’t grow up in church. I went some with my grandmother. So, I didn’t know much about what it meant to be a Christian. My dad would watch Christian broadcasting and I would watch with him. One day we were watching CBN and at the end of the broadcast there was an invitation to pray. I was around 12 years old. I decided to hold hands with dad and prayed to accept Jesus. I didn’t know much about baptism at all. I would read the Bible on my own, listen to Christian radio and watch Christian broadcasting. I would go to church with friends here and there. I gave into peer pressure as I moved into my teens, around 16, because I wanted to be accepted by someone. I went on to date a man 5 years older than me. I would tell him that we needed to go to church. We went one time. We later slept together and became pregnant with our first child. Years later I got us into a church and decided to change the way we’d been living. I remained abstinent until we could be married by the church. I learned about baptism there and asked to be baptized one day and married the next. So, that was almost 10 years between praying to accept Jesus and baptism. As I look back, I struggle to know if I am right with God.

The Jewish practice of Baptism for Jewish converts was the point of change so much so that it was the point where the Gentile would be given new clothes. The Didache reveals much the same frame of mind as the Jewish practice. I do believe that Baptism is much more than just a sign - Acts 2:38 and Romans 6 declare that baptism is much more than just a symbol. The early church clearly practiced baptism as being much more that just a symbol.

Gal 3:27 (nkjv/ esv) For as many of you as we're baptized into Christ have put on Christ. Personally I loved being baptized.. putting my old self put to death in Christ. Blessings 🕊.

I was taught that baptism in the name of Christ was absolutely necessary because it was a commandment after his resurrection. People would say you don’t have to because the thief on the cross wasn’t baptized , but he died in the Old Testament laws. In the New Testament we are commanded to be baptized. What happens if we go against his commandment?

I was baptized when I was 12 and again when I really came to know Christ, and was about to get married, but wasn't part of a church yet, so the pastor who was doing the wedding baptized me. Afterwards I realized he believed that Budda and Allah and the true God are all the same. Should I be rebaptized by someone with true beliefs?

I just feel something so disturbingly wrong about the Catholic baby baptisms, seen a few horrific videos 😳😳

Favorite thumbnail 😂

@Mike Winger I was baptized as an infant and had my daughter baptized as an infant. But I have since studied the Bible a lot and my understanding of my faith has grown a lot, now I don't agree with baptizing infants. Now I am not sure what to do about either of us when it comes to re-baptizing.

Wow! Thank you!