Justification and Baptism

Series:  Foundations–Sola Gratia, Sola Fide, Sola Christus

Justification and Baptism

Romans 4:6-11

The doctrine of justification clarifies how a person is made right with God.  People are made right with God, by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone.

Romans 4:6-11

Justification by faith is how everyone must be made right with God. 

Abraham received the sign of the covenant after he was made right with God.

God established religious expressions to disciple His people.  

Jesus instructed the church to observe communion and practice baptism to show their faith. 

the difference between communion & baptism

·    Communion is done corporately--baptism individually.

·    Communion is done often.  Baptism is a one-time event. 

·    Communion is a reminder of established knowledge.  Baptism signifies a new understanding.

·    Protestants have generally agreed on the meaning and practice of communion.  Baptism has been the object of sharp division. 

When should a person be baptized?   

Baptism should be reserved for believers and should be administered soon after they come to faith. 

How should a person be baptized?  

In the New Testament, the described mode of baptism is immersion.  

Why is baptism important?

Because of the doctrine of justification by grace alone, through faith in Christ alone, we believe that baptism is symbolic and does not have saving power. 

·      Baptism follows Jesus’ example. 

Matthew 3:11

·      Baptism is a picture of the Gospel.

Romans 6:4

·      Baptism symbolizes a real life change. 

Romans 6:4

·      Baptism provides a next step for a new believer.

Acts 2:37-38

·      Baptism is an important spiritual milestone in a believer’s life.

·      Baptism identifies a person with a community of faith.

Ephesians 4:4-5

·      Baptism requires humility.

Today’s Takeaways

1.  The doctrine of justification should guide our religious expressions.

2.  Obedience in baptism is a first step to becoming a disciple of Christ. 

3.  We proclaim through baptism that Christ alone saves.