Publisher's Synopsis
Baptism is a major point of division between believers in Christ Jesus rather than a unifying element. Therefore, we must either agree on it and its purpose or agree that it can be abandoned for the sake of the unity which Jesus prayed for. If believing alone in Jesus results in salvation then why is baptism connected to forgiveness of sins Acts 2:38?
"There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all" (Ephesians 4:4-6).
Why does the apostle Paul include baptism along with all those ones? Can baptism have a purpose? If so, what is its purpose? There are many views of baptism and ways of being baptized. Therefore, in order to understand the one baptism, we must examine it through the Scriptures. It was considered just as important as one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, and one God and Father.
In the Scriptures a progression can be seen. Hearing the Gospel, believing, repenting, and confessing Jesus as Lord and Savior. The question that must be honestly faced is baptism what unites one with Christ and is necessary.
Seeking the answer to the purpose of baptism the author determined to search the Scriptures with fresh eyes having laid aside past teachings and traditions. The reader is encouraged to do the same and seek the truth.
