North Charlottesville church of Christ

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Are Conditional Promises Contrary to Salvation by Faith?

Larry Rouse
04/06/25 - Sun AM

Meeting Purpose

To discuss water baptism, the grace of God, and salvation by faith.

Key Takeaways

• Salvation is by grace through faith, not by works, but involves conditional promises from God

• Biblical baptism is an essential part of calling on the name of the Lord for salvation, not a work to earn salvation

• Understanding the purpose of baptism (for remission of sins, to receive the Holy Spirit) is crucial

• Those unsure about their baptism may consider being re-baptized with proper understanding

Topics

Salvation by Grace Through Faith

• Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes salvation is a gift of God, not by works

• Romans 4 contrasts works-based righteousness (earning/debt) with faith-based righteousness (gift)

• Salvation involves forgiveness of sins and being covered by God's grace

• Works-based salvation requires perfect obedience, which is impossible for humans

Calling on the Name of the Lord

• Romans 10:13 - "Whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved"

• Acts 2:21 quotes this, then gives instructions on how to call (repent and be baptized)

• Acts 22:16 shows Paul still needed to "call on the name of the Lord" through baptism, despite already believing

Baptism as Part of Salvation

• Colossians 2:11-13 links baptism with forgiveness of sins and being made alive with Christ

• Acts 16:30-34 shows the Philippian jailer and family being baptized immediately after believing

• Baptism is not a work to earn salvation, but a conditional promise to receive God's free gift

• One baptism is listed among the seven "ones" in Ephesians 4:4-6

Understanding the Purpose of Baptism

• Acts 19:1-5 shows people being re-baptized after understanding its true purpose

• Baptism should be done for remission of sins and to receive the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38)

• Proper confession of faith in Jesus as Lord should precede baptism (Romans 10:9-10)

Next Steps

• Examine personal baptism experience to ensure it aligns with biblical teaching

• Consider being re-baptized if unsure about understanding or purpose at time of baptism

• Study scriptures further to solidify understanding of salvation, grace, and baptism

• Be prepared to explain these concepts to others seeking to become Christians