Monday, January 17, 2011

The Benefits of Baptism

What does baptism give or profit?
It works forgiveness of sins, delivers from death and the devil, and gives eternal salvation to all who believe what the Word and promises of God declare.  The Holy Spirit creates faith by use of the sacrament, and all who desire forgiveness of their guilt are admitted to the sacrament.
pg. 265 Martin Luther's Theology

He who believes [who adheres to and trusts in and relies on the Gospel and Him Whom it sets forth] and is baptized will be saved [from the penalty of eternal death]; but he who does not believe [who does not adhere to and trust in and rely on the Gospel and Him Whom it sets forth] will be condemned. Mark 16:16 Amplified Bible

Matthew Henry's Commentary says...They shall be saved from the guilt, and power of sin, it shall not rule them, it shall not ruin them. He that is a true Christian shall be saved through Christ.

...Baptism is no harmless ritual; it is a battle against evil. Pastor, parents, sponsors, and the congregation, ought to "throw everything that they have into the fight for the child against the devil and to act in such a manner that they make this so important that it is no fun for the devil." ... pg 270 Martin Luther's Theology

This is about us, today! This is what our faithful pastors, parents, and friends do to us daily. 
Your baptism is an indelible mark, and cannot be removed! Praise the Lord for His steadfast love and unceasing mercies!


3 comments:

  1. Thankyou! We are being trained to fight! Baptism is a powerful weapon.
    Ps. 144 Blessed be the LORD my strength,which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight:

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  2. Yes we are! By the grace of God and the daily waters of baptism, we are restored to who we really are: warriors and watchmen for each other!

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  3. "We ought to throw everything that they have into the fight for the child against the devil and to act in such a manner that they make this so important that it is no fun for the devil." I really like this! Think of how much fun this could be!! Thank you, Emily & Ryan for laboring in this for us so we can be a part of the ongoing preaching!

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