[Zuriel]

The first post ascension sermon was interupted by convicted souls asking, “Men and brethern, what shall we do?”

Peter said unto them, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the Holy Ghost”.

That’s Acts 2:38.......is it from heaven, or of men?

**Hebrews 9:14**

Written to those already born again (See Heb. 6:1-3).

**Romans 10:9-13**

Written to the saints at Rome (they were already born again. See Rm 6:3-7, and 17).

**2 Corinthians 5:17**

Written to the saints at Corinth. They were already born again as well.

**Ephesians 2:8-10**

Written to the saints at Ephesus. Yep, already born again.

Your references to the Gospels, including this...

**The thief clearly was saved with his last minute confession.**

...are examples of people who were still under the old testament, for Jesus hadn’t died yet. (Heb. 9:17).

**Acts 16:30-31**

Why did you stop with 31...Paul preached the word, and baptized them.

**This scripture clearly shows that baptism isn’t part of salvation, but a commandment afterward.**

I ask again, Acts 2:38...is it from heaven or of men?

[CynicalBear]

Acts 2:38 is talking about a public expression of an already accomplished spiritual truth. Stop playing the “did God really say” game.

[mrobisr]

Blood has to be shed to forgive sin, in the OT it was animals in the NT it was the Precious Blood of Jesus Christ. Baptism is of Man and has its place in the outward expression of Death, Burial, and Resurrection, but it doesn't save. During the flood the water killed every living thing except those under the protection of the Ark. Sounds just like the Blood of Jesus doesn't it? I have been baptized, but it didn't save me. The Blood of the New Covenant, the Blood of Jesus forgives sin and his Broken Body forgives transgressions. I Praise God that I don't need or have to depend on another sinful man for my salvation as you do. The finished work that Jesus did on that Cross is all I need no man, no object, nor denomination and that's all according to your Bible. 1 Corinthians 1:14 Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (RSVCE) 14 I am thankful that I baptized none of you except Crispus and Ga′ius