"I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius...and I baptized also the household of Stephanas besides I know not whither I baptized any other. For Christ sent me NOT TO BAPTIZE, but to PREACH THE GOSPEL..."(1 Cor. 1:14,16,17).
Would either of you like to explain which baptism Paul was referring to? And why it is so vitally important to understand in this dispensation of grace? Thank you.
1st. ONE BAPTISM. What a shame it is to see the many different factions, faiths, denominations and even baptisms in the church today. What Paul meant here was not only immersion and not sprinkling or pouring, but also a baptism for the forgiveness of sins which is necessary unto salvation. John the Baptist preached a baptism of repentence. But now baptism saves us. (1 Peter 3:21)
2. Paul does not want to take credit for saving/baptizing anyone. Even though Paul was instrumental in bringing these souls to Christ through their hearing, repenting and being baptized, he knows all the glory belongs to Christ. These passage are yet more examples of salvation being acheived through baptism. Thanks for sharing them.
This is a mighty strange statement, if baptism is REQUIRED for Salvation...