So, how was that thief on the cross able to make it into Paradise?
Or are you suggesting that Mormons would someday be vicariously baptised on his behalf, Jesus knew that would happen in the future, and so he let the guy in that day?
Great reply!
XR7,
When I teach about Baptism I don't start with "what ifs" and the like. Theology is not done well when it is theology by casuistry. (This is how many leaders in my church body do theology, sadly) However, since this is where we are, let me tell you a story. I was having lunch one day at Acme Oyster House in New Orleans, sitting next to a nice gentleman. I was wearing my clerical collar. We were having a nice conversation until he brought up spirituality. He asked what Lutherans believe. I said that we believe in the forgiveness of sins through the merits of Christ, won on Calvary and bestowed in the sacraments. He brought it up, I didn't! He simply said, "So, if I'm not baptized and I walk out in the middle of that street and get run over by a truck, I won't go to heaven?" Since he despised baptism I called him to repentance by saying, "Yes." I think, speaking of the thief on the cross, that it is very reasonable to believe that he had been baptized. It is also true that it is not the lack of baptism which damns, but despising it. Your thoughts?