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Paul and Baptism

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BBryant:
Ray has said in several of his articles that Paul quit baptizing.  My question is where does it say this in the scriptures?  I was raised to believe that baptism is necessary as a 'representation' of the death, burial and resurrection of our Lord -  1Pe 3:21 "the representation of which, baptism, is now saving you also (not the putting off of the filth of the flesh, but the inquiry of a good conscience to God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.."

Can someon explain Peter's statement to me?  I understand that no physical act saves us but I still get confused when reading about baptism being mentioned so many times in the NT.

Thank you.

theyachtman:
I think the way Paul said "I Thank God that I ONLY baptised Gaius and Crispus" showed almost an apology for literalizing that which should be spiritual . . .

BBryant:
Thank you, yachtman.  Perhaps within the rest of Paul's statement lies the answer to my question:  "...lest anyone may be saying that you are baptized into my name. Yet I baptize the household of Stephanas also. Furthermore, I am not aware if I baptize any other.  For Christ does not commission me to be baptizing, but to be bringing the evangel, not in wisdom of word, lest the cross of Christ may be made void."

hillsbororiver:

--- Quote from: BBryant ---Ray has said in several of his articles that Paul quit baptizing.  My question is where does it say this in the scriptures?  I was raised to believe that baptism is necessary as a 'representation' of the death, burial and resurrection of our Lord -  1Pe 3:21 "the representation of which, baptism, is now saving you also (not the putting off of the filth of the flesh, but the inquiry of a good conscience to God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.."

Can someon explain Peter's statement to me?  I understand that no physical act saves us but I still get confused when reading about baptism being mentioned so many times in the NT.

Thank you.
--- End quote ---


Hello B,

Is it necessary to be circumcised in the flesh as well? When we are admonished to die to the flesh are we to physically commit suicide? Are these things physical or spiritual?

Is it possible that this baptism is a spiritual transformation? Or is it just a physical ritual with magical ramifications?

If I sound cavalier it is not my intention, I am only wondering how you feel about these other physical, outward manifestations and if you believe they might be necessary as well.

Sincerely,

Joe

BBryant:

--- Quote ---Is it necessary to be circumcised in the flesh as well? When we are admonished to die to the flesh are we to physically commit suicide? Are these things physical or spiritual?

Is it possible that this baptism is a spiritual transformation? Or is it just a physical ritual with magical ramifications?

If I sound cavalier it is not my intention, I am only wondering how you feel about these other physical, outward manifestations and if you believe they might be necessary as well.
--- End quote ---


Hi Joe,

To answer your question:  I understand that the new covenant eliminated the 'physical' and when we 'die to the flesh' it is spiritual.  As I stated, I also understand that no 'physical rite' is required for salvation.

It is difficult for me to explain - I guess I still have a problem with total spiritual understanding although I know the spirit led me to Ray's site.  I had for years questioned the 'hell' doctrine and his and Mike's articles have been a blessing in answering many of my questions.

My original question here is related to 1Pe 3:21 "the representation of which, baptism, is now saving you also (not the putting off of the filth of the flesh, but the inquiry of a good conscience to God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.." and why Paul ever baptized at all.  

Paul speaks of one Lord, one faith, one baptism which I can understand is the 'immersion' by the Spirit.  But I have yet to get a concise, understandable explanation of why water baptism was done at all.  This may sound like I'm trying to say that baptism is a requirement for salvation but I do not believe that - I'm just trying to understand WHY it was ever used, period.

Thank you for your help.
Barbara

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