Why Tarriest Thou?

Baptism, the Command, and the Heart

“It’s just an outward expression of faith.” Many Christians describe baptism that way, and they usually mean it’s optional. Others go the opposite direction and treat the water as if it saves on its own.

Scripture rejects both views.

In this episode we look at what the text actually says about baptism. We start with the meaning of the word, then the command Jesus gave, and the fact that he was baptized himself and called it fulfilling all righteousness. From there we follow the apostles, who baptized converts the same day and sometimes the same hour. We trace the practice back to the washing of Israel’s priests before they could draw near to God. And we cover the warnings: Simon was baptized and had no part in the gospel, Judas was washed and still not clean, and Israel passed through the sea and fell in the wilderness.

We also take up the strongest objections head on: grace and works, Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 1, and the thief on the cross. Then we come to Cornelius. He is often cited as proof that baptism isn’t necessary, but his case turns out to be one of the strongest arguments for it. He had already received the Spirit, and Peter still commanded him to be baptized.

If you believe and haven’t been baptized, the question Ananias put to Saul still applies: Why are you waiting?

Notes: Why Tarriests Thou?

Episode Link:

https://www.rabbitholesandmeditations.com/why-tarriest-thou/