Chapter 7: Luther's List of "Sugar Stick" Verses He Uses to Prove His False Doctrine of Bapti...
Chapter Seven Luther's List of "Sugar Stick" Verses He Uses to Prove His False Doctrine of Baptismal Regeneration In the ministry, an evangelist may have a few, favorite sermons in his, for lack of a better word, repertoire. These are sometimes jokingly referred to as "Sugar Stick" sermons. However, it is no joke when we review Martin Luther's favorite teachings! The following is a list of verses that Luther and his followers are trusting which they hope will prove that baptism is the way to have salvation.
Luther's First "Sugar Stick" is 1 Corinthians 6:11 :
(As Quoted by Martin Luther in His Small Catechism, P.176, Par. 636).
"(And such were some of you:) but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God." (The words in parentheses are omitted in the Catechism.)
Nowhere in this verse does the word "baptism" appear. Luther, in his Small Catechism, tells you to believe that "washed" means water baptism. We find a basic principle in 2 Peter 1:20, that must be followed to honestly evaluate Scripture correctly.
"Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation." In other words, a person cannot take a verse of Scripture out of context and apply it to substantiate a pre-conceived doctrine, or idea. All Scriptures must agree with each other; or, one would have to conclude that God contradicted Himself, which is an impossibility. The contradiction would have to be in the man's ideas, not in God's Word. Paul verifies this as he states in 1 Corinthians 1:25.
"Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men."
Let us compare Luther's interpretation that "washed" means "baptized for salvation" against the Word of God.
The Apostle John disagrees with Luther in Revelation 1:5,
"And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,"(No baptism here!)
The Apostle Peter disagrees with Luther – 1 Peter 1:18-19,
"Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation (Gr. "behavior") received by tradition from your fathers; (V.18). But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:" (No baptism here.) Also, Peter testifying to Cornelius, said in Acts 10:43,
"To him (Christ) give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins."(No baptism here.)
The Apostle Paul rebukes Luther's false doctrine of "salvation by baptism" time after time.
"But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness." (Romans 4:5). (No baptism here.)
"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:" (Romans 5:1). (No baptism here.)
Isaiah's great prophecy in Isaiah 53:5 tells of our Salvation through Jesus Christ and Him alone.
"But he (Christ) was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed (i.e.,saved)." (No baptism here!)
Luther is trusting his baptism for eternal life and wants you to do the same. Re-read the verses listed above and you will see how God's Word contradicts Luther's philosophy of baptismal regeneration. Always remember, that all Scriptures must agree; or the contradiction is that of the false teacher, NOT GOD! It always comes down to this, "Who are you going to believe, God, or man?" As Romans 3:4 states,
"God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar..."
Luther's Second "Sugar Stick" is Acts 2:38 :
"Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins." (Luther's Small Catechism, P.175, Par.629).
This is one of Luther's "sugar sticks" that he relies upon to support his "salvation by baptism." To erase any doubt that Luther's faith is in his baptism for the remission of sins, may I quote his words preceding Acts 2:38 in his Catechism.
"253. What great things, then, does baptism give or work? A. It works forgiveness of sins."
Acts 2:38 is a classic example of how "one little word" can change the whole meaning of a verse. The key to the proper understanding of this verse is found in the little Greek word "EIS," translated "for." The Greek word "EIS" is translated various ways in the New Testament, depending on the context and the usage of the word itself, by demonstrating BASIS, GROUND, AIM, or PURPOSE. For example, in Matthew 12:41, "EIS" is translated "at," demonstrating the basis, or grounds. The preaching of Jonah was the grounds for the repentance of Nineveh. "...because they repented at (Gr. "EIS" or "because of") the preaching of Jonas."
A.T. ROBERTSON, a well-known Greek scholar has pointed out that the Greek preposition, "EIS," translated "for" in the phrase, "for the remission of sins," may also mean "because of." An example of this can be found in Luke 11:32, where the text says that the people of Nineveh, "...repented at the preaching of Jonas..." The word "at" is a translation of the same Greek term "EIS" found in Acts 2:38. The people of Jonah's day, you see, did not repent FOR his preaching; but, BECAUSE of it."
DR. JOHN R. RICE, the founder of the "Sword of The Lord" newspaper, and a prolific writer who has authored volumes of books on the Bible, and is a worthy scholar known world-wide, agrees with this translation of "EIS." In one of his books entitled, "Filled With The Spirit, The Book of Acts, A Verse-by-Verse Commentary, he states the following in his exposition of Acts 2:38 :
"The King James translation of Acts 2:38, ‘...be baptized everyone of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins...' is unfortunate and inaccurate. The little Greek preposition, EIS, translated for, is an indefinite preposition of reference. It does not mean in order to receive the remission of sins, or he would have needed to use the Greek preposition HINA, which means in order to. He did not.
Even in English the preposition for does not necessarily mean, in order to. Often for means ‘on the basis of,' or ‘on the ground of.' Thus one is scolded for being late, or arrested for stealing, or praised for beauty, or rewarded for bravery, or paid for work. In that sense, only, is one baptized for remission of sins already obtained when one repented."
Therefore, in Acts 2:38, "EIS" is showing the "basis or grounds" for baptism; that of their "remission of sins" and "BECAUSE OF" their belief in Jesus Christ as their Savior. This would then be in perfect agreement with all other Scriptures concerning salvation.
Here is how the verse should literally be read in its proper translation:
"Then Peter said unto them, Repent (Change your mind.), and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ BECAUSE OF (Gr. "EIS") the remission of sins..."
In other words, "repent" (Gr. "metanoeō," i.e. "change your mind") about Christ whom you crucified with wicked hands ("hands of unbelief," Acts 2:23) and receive Him as your Savior. Then, be baptized; therefore, publicly identifying yourself with Him by the profession of your faith.
Acts 2:38 does not give a "new plan of salvation." It would be contradictory of Peter to proclaim salvation in Christ only; then state, "You have to be baptized to be saved. The Apostle Peter makes it very clear in Acts 4:12.
"Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (No baptism here!)
Peter, under the direction of the Holy Spirit, did not contradict himself, or God, in Acts 2:38. Here is a case in point where one little preposition, "EIS," mistranslated, could change the meaning of the whole verse. This mistranslation is the villain which has caused this verse to appear to disagree with all other verses concerning salvation, which it does not.
Peter gives a further testimony in Acts 15:9, at the Jerusalem Council, that Salvation is by FAITH, not baptism.
"And put no difference between us (Jews) and them (Gentiles), purifying their hearts by faith." (No baptism here!)
This is in perfect agreement with Romans 5:1.
"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:" (Not baptism.)
God's word in Romans 6:23 states unequivocally that eternal life was bought and paid for by the death of Christ on the cross. It is thus offered as a free gift to anyone who will accept it by faith.
"For the wages of sin is death; but the GIFT of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Not baptism.)
Everyone knows that a gift is bought and paid for by someone else. The gift is purchased because of their love for the person they wish to give it to. This is exactly what God did because of His love for His creation, as described in John 3:16.
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him (Christ) should not perish, but have everlasting life." (No baptism here.)
Martin Luther refuses to accept salvation as a free gift by faith in Jesus Christ and Him ALONE. Here are Luther's words in his own Catechism. (Large Catechism, P. 86, Par. 44).
"But I am baptized! And if I am baptized, I have the promise that I shall be saved and have eternal life, both in soul and body."
He then deletes 8 words out of a verse containing 17 words, in Mark 16:16, which leads us to...
Luther's Third "Sugar Stick" is Mark 16:16 :
"He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved;(but he that believeth not shall be damned.)" (Small Catechism, P.175, Par. 633). As is the custom of Luther, he again quotes only a part of a verse which he tries to use to support his line of thinking. Only what is not contained in the parentheses appears in his Catechism. The rest of the verse, shown in parenthesis, he omitted.
At one's first reading, "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved" would seem contradictory to the multiplicity of verses which say we are saved by believing only. For example, 1 John 5:13 states authoritatively that a person can know with absolute certainty that they possess eternal life, yet there is no mention of water baptism.
"These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God."
Peter states it is not water baptism; or any human effort that redeems a person; but only the blood of Christ.
"Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; (V.18).
But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:" (1 Peter 1:18-19) (No baptism here!) And we find in John's Gospel,
"He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him." (John 3:36).
"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life." (John 6:47).
Comparing these verses with Mark 16:16, there either has to be an explanation; or, we definitely have a contradiction between Peter, Mark and John! May I draw your attention to the last phrase in Mark 16:16, which Luther omitted in his Small Catechism, P. 175, Par. 633.
"...He that believeth not shall be damned..."
It does not say,
"...He that believeth not (and is not baptized) shall be damned..."
Only those who "believe not" shall be damned, which is in perfect accordance with John's statement in John 3:18,
"He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God."
Both Mark 16:16 and John 3:18 state that a person is condemned if they do not believe; but nothing is said about being condemned if one is not baptized! All Scriptures agree to this conclusion. Since we are not condemned for not being baptized, then what does the opposite mean when Mark says,
"He that believeth AND is baptized shall be saved?
It is easy to understand this verse when the child of God realizes there are TWO who recognize that he is justified as being saved. The "believing" in Mark 16:16 justifies the person in the eyes of God, as being saved. This is our POSITION in God's eyes, our salvation by belief or faith, only. Their public baptism is their TESTIMONY, justifying them as being saved in the EYES OF MAN. The lost will not recognize and justify a person as being a child of God, unless he hears the testimony AND sees the works compatible to a Christian. Baptism declares,
"For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation...." (Romans 1:16 a).
This identification is justification in man's eyes that I am saved. "Believeth" in Mark 16:16 is to the Book of
Romans what baptism is to the Book of James. Romans 4:5 says,
"But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness (Justification in God's eyes)." (No baptism here!)
Notice James 2:17-18 where man cannot see our faith, unless it is outwardly evidenced.
"Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, (in man's eyes) being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works." (Justification in man's eyes)."
Therefore, "he that believeth" in Mark 16:16 justifies me in GOD'S EYES as being saved AND my baptism justifies me as being saved in MAN'S EYES. "Believeth" is my POSITION before God; whereas, baptism is my WALK and TESTIMONY before men.
Luther is as crafty and deceitful as they come as he employs his tactics of using only pieces of a verse; therefore, disregarding the context of the verse. This violates all principles of Biblical interpretation, and indoctrinates a person with a false peace predicated on Luther's philosophy of baptismal regeneration. This is why it is important to heed God's warning as given in Ephesians 4:14,
"That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight (i.e. trickery) of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;"
Mark 16:16 contains 17 words. Luther quotes 9 of the 17, and omits the last 8 words. This is one of the devices every cult leader uses to deceive their followers. Luther has earned and well deserves, by his own writings, the title of THE MASTER OF DECEIT.
Luther's faith is in water baptism, a work of the flesh. This is Satan's counterfeit of God's Salvation. It comes down to a very simple decision. Who are you going to believe? Is it the Bible or the writings of a man who has been dead for some 460 years? Faith in Jesus Christ and Him alone is God's promise of eternal life; whereas, Luther's false promise of baptismal regeneration leads only to eternal damnation.
Luther's Fourth "Sugar Stick" is 1 Peter 3:21 :
"Baptism doth also now save us." 1 Peter 3:21. (Luther's Small Catechism, P.175, Par. 634).
The above quotation is exactly as it appears in Luther's Catechism. The problem with Luther's quote is that he only quoted 6 words from 1 Peter 3:21, which contains a total of 36 words. He, then, gave a verse reference that makes it appear he had quoted the complete verse. Luther just chopped 6 words out of a verse to make it support his perverted theology. Is it any wonder why Luther wants you to study his Catechisms, instead of encouraging you to read the Bible for yourself. His instruction to every Lutheran is stated in his Large Catechism, P.4, Par.11.
"For this reason alone you should eagerly read, recite, ponder, and practice the CATECHISM."
Now we are going to quote from the Bible, ALL of 1 Peter 3:21, as well as 1 Peter 3:20, which gives us the context about which God is speaking.
"...When once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by (through) water." (1 Peter 3:20). The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh [i.e., our sins], but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:" (1 Peter 3:21).
Several years ago, my wife and I were listening to the car radio, having just tuned in to a religious broadcast. After a few minutes, the minister quoted one sentence from 1 Peter 3:21, that being "The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us"—period! He did not finish the verse, but went on to explain at great length the necessity of baptism for salvation.
Again, I cannot emphasize strongly enough the importance of reading all of a verse, including the surrounding context, to receive the correct interpretation and meaning. In 2 Timothy 2:15 we are instructed to "Rightly divide the word of truth", NOT "Rightly chop up the word of truth" to make each piece fit a person's preconceived ideas!
Since 1 Peter 3:21 begins with "The like figure...", it is referring to that which is set forth in 1 Peter 3:20. It should be noticed that in 1 Peter 3:20, the "eight souls that were saved by water" should be translated "saved through water," NOT "by water." The eight were saved from the flood waters by being in the ark—a type of Christ. They were not saved by the water, for it was the water which destroyed!
Therefore, "the like figure" is figurative of the Ark of Christ, which provided absolute safety from the flood waters of death. The flood waters testify of death; and, the ark testifies of resurrection. Notice Genesis 8:4,
"And the ark rested in the seventh month, on the seventeenth day of the month, upon the mountains of Ararat."
It is not by chance that the ark, a type of Christ, rested on the mountain on the 7th month and 17th day. Centuries later, God changed the calendar. Noah's calendar was in effect until the emancipation of Israel from Egypt. God then instituted their religious calendar. The first month of Israel's religious calendar was the same as the 7th month of Noah' s secular calendar, or our April. The Jewish Passover, representing Christ's death, was on the 14th day (Leviticus 23:4-5); therefore, Christ was resurrected three days later on the 17th, the same day that the ark rested on the mountains of Ararat, showing resurrection.
Conclusion: Baptism does not save us; but, publicly identifies us, showing our faith is in the death, and resurrection of our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Returning to 1 Peter 3:21, we find the phrase "baptism doth also now save us" is explained within the verse, itself. Here we have the "negative" and the "positive." The "negative" tells us what baptism does not save us from. Here is the record...
"...(not the putting away of the filth of the flesh [i.e., our sins]..."
Now the "positive" telling us what baptism does save us from; that being a GUILTY CONSCIENCE before God. Again, the record...
"...but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:"
How simple the Scriptures are when we are willing to accept God' s Word as our authority. A child of God is saved by faith alone (Ephesians 2:8-9); but, will be void of a good, clear conscience until they are willing to be identified with Christ by their public baptism.
Luther is truly one of Satan's prized possessions! He has well-earned the title he deserves, the "Master of Deceit", by not believing Proverbs 30:5, which tells us,
"Every word of God is pure..."
Luther's Fifth "Sugar Stick" is Acts 22:16 :
(Luther's Small Catechism, P. 175, Par. 630).
"And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord."
Only what is underlined appears in Luther's Catechism. Should a person open their Bible and read this verse, one could only conclude that baptism was essential for salvation. The only problem with this is, that it would contradict all of the multiplicity of Scriptures that promise eternal life by belief, faith, and the blood of Christ, excluding baptism.
The person in question is the Apostle Paul. The verse in question is that of Acts 22:16 stating, "... arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins,..." We have the person and the verse in question; now, we seek to answer the most important question, "Does faith in Christ alone save, or is it baptism that saves?" To reach a definite conclusion, let us briefly examine Paul's life in three areas, which will bring us back to the answer to Acts 22:16. The three areas are: Paul's PAST Reputation; Paul's PRESENT Redemption; and Paul's FUTURE Response.
Paul's PAST Reputation.
Let's allow the Scriptures to speak for themselves. In Acts 7:1-60, Stephen was being stoned to death for his faith in Jesus Christ. Paul was part of it. Acts 7:58 states,
"And cast him (Stephen) out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul." In Acts 8:1 a, "And Saul was consenting unto his death...." In Acts 9:1, "And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord..."
Galatians 1:13, "For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:"
Here are Paul's words when he was arrested in Jerusalem, concerning his past.
"And I persecuted this way (i.e., Christians) unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women." (Acts 22:4).
Paul's past, in summary, documented him as a blasphemer; a persecutor; and a murderer of Christians.
Paul's PRESENT Redemption:
In Acts, Chapter 9, we have recorded Paul's encounter with Jesus Christ as he was on his way to Damascus. It was at this meeting when Paul got saved. The record is found in Acts 9:3-6.
"And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:" (V.3)
"And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?" (V.4).
"And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks." (V.5).
"And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do." (V.6).
It is important to realize that the Greek word for "Lord" is "Kurios." The first translation of the Old Testament Scriptures into Greek was known as the Septuagint. Whenever the translators came to translate the Hebrew word "Jehovah," i.e. "GOD", into the Greek, they used "Kurios." Paul knew Hebrew and Greek well; as "Paul" is his Greek name and "Saul" is his Hebrew name. He was known by both. Therefore, when the Lord asked Saul in Acts 9:4, "...Why persecutest thou me?"
He thought it was Jehovah GOD, speaking. In Acts 9:5, Saul answered,
"...Who art thou, Lord?" (i.e., "Kurios," Greek for "Jehovah" of the Old Testament).
In other words, "Are you GOD?"
"...And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest:"
Paul immediately recognized that this was Jesus, the Messiah, the Savior, being God manifested in the flesh. In Acts 9:6 we have Saul's salvation recorded, as he acknowledges Jesus as Jehovah GOD.
"And he (Paul) trembling and astonished said, Lord, (Greek, "Kurios", i.e. GOD) what wilt thou have me to do?
Paul had now changed his mind about Jesus Christ, whom he had previously thought to be a false teacher. He was now SAVED, as he later wrote in Romans 5:1.
"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:" (No baptism here.) A short time later, at Damascus, when Ananias met with Paul, he addressed him as "BROTHER SAUL!" He was now recognized as a spiritual Christian brother in Christ. (Acts 9:17). Remember, Paul is now saved; but, he has not yet been baptized.
Luther disagrees with God's Word, as he states in his Catechism the following:
Moreover, it is solemnly and strictly commanded that we must be baptized or we shall not be saved." (Large Catechism, P.81, Par. 6).
Here, again, Luther is found to be a liar and a false teacher, as Saul was already saved prior to his baptism. Always keep in remembrance the three proofs of Saul's salvation prior to his baptism. May I recapitulate for emphasis.
In Acts 9:6 – Saul called Jesus "Lord," proof that he had repented (i.e., Greek, "metanoeo,"); or changed his mind concerning Jesus being a false teacher, and He was now his Savior.
Also in Acts 9:6 – We find Saul, the persecutor and murderer of those who followed Christ; NOW, wanted to serve the true and living God, Jesus the Messiah. He proved this by making his will known in the statement,"...What wilt thou have me to do."
Acts 9:17 –Ananias, recognizing that Saul was a "chosen vessel" of the Lord in Acts 9:15, as Jesus had told him. Then in Acts 9:17, Ananias, upon meeting Saul, addressed him as a brother in Christ by stating, "BROTHER SAUL."
Paul's FUTURE Response.
From the time of Paul being saved in Acts, Chapter 9, until we reach Acts, Chapter 22, several years have passed. In the meantime he had made three missionary journeys, which began in Acts 13:2, and culminated in Acts 21:17 with his arrival back in Jerusalem.
Now let us return to our Verse in question, found in Acts 22:16, where Paul is testifying about what Ananias said to him AFTER he was saved.
"And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord."
How important it is to examine the context and circumstances of a particular verse, which will always reveal the truth of a subject to the person who will be honest with the Scriptures and themselves. The subject matter in question, of which Acts 22:16 is a part, begins back in Acts 21:15 where Paul goes to Jerusalem. It is here, in the Temple, that the people apprehend Paul.
"And all the city was moved, and the people ran together: and they took Paul, and drew him out of the temple: and forthwith the doors were shut." (Acts 21:30).
Paul was not in the inner sanctuary (Greek, "ho naos"); but, only in the outer court (Greek, "to hieron"). The "Jews from Asia" had stirred up the people and they were beating Paul when he was saved by the chief captain and soldiers (Acts 21:32). As they were leading him to the barracks, the Roman soldiers' "castle," (Acts 21:37), Paul asked the chief captain for permission to speak to the people. (Acts 21:39-40).
Paul's testimony is recorded in Acts 22:1-21. The content of his testimony was relating what he had experienced earlier, as recorded in Acts, Chapter 9.
Again, it is to be emphasized that Paul's salvation is evidenced by his acknowledgement of Christ as his Lord, or Savior (Acts 22:7-8; Acts 22:10). He also testifies to the fact that Ananias addressed him as a spiritual brother, since both were Christians.
(Ananias)"Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, BROTHER Saul...." (Acts 22:13). As noted, only the saved are spiritual brothers and sisters in Christ, and such was Paul. Since Paul was already saved, what did Ananias mean by telling Paul to be,
"...baptized and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord." (Acts 22:16).
One must remember that there is a JUDICIAL or POSITIONAL justification of sin, and a PRACTICAL justification of sin. When Paul was saved, he received remission for all his sins, JUDICIALLY; i.e., Christ's death on the cross bore the ETERNAL payment for Paul's sins; past, present, and future.
"Being justified (declared absolutely righteous) freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation (payment) through faith in his blood (not baptism), to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;" (Romans 3:24-25).
Ananias was instructing Saul as to how God wanted him to deal with his past sins: PRACTICALLY and PUBLICLY. Almost every Jew and Gentile knew of Paul's commitment and reputation concerning his persecution of Christians.
"And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord..." (Acts 9:1).
"And I said, Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee: (V.19). And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him." (Acts 22:19-20).
Now that Paul is a Christian, his PUBLIC profession of faith in Christ is of utmost importance, just as it is for every Christian. His baptism would be a PUBLIC TESTIMONY of his faith in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. By his baptism, he was now publicly identifying himself with those Christians who he once persecuted.
In baptism, being immersed shows "death," and being raised out of the water shows "resurrection." When Paul was baptized, it was his PUBLIC testimony that he was not the same person he was before he met Christ on the road to Damascus. He later wrote:
"Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life." (Romans 6:4).
The sins Paul was going to "wash away" were his acts of persecution against Christians prior to being saved. JUDICIALLY, Paul's sins were judged on Calvary; now, they would be "washed away" PUBLICLY in the eyes of the Christians who knew of his conversion (made public by his baptism).
You can rest assured, Paul gave his testimony at his baptism, by calling on the name of the Lord in thanksgiving for saving a sinner such as he! One example can be found in 1 Timothy 1:12-15,
"And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; (V.12).
"Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. (V.13). And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. (V.14). This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief." (V.15).
The sins of Paul's persecution against Christians WOULD NEVER BE REPEATED AGAIN! His PUBLIC profession, from that time on "WASHED AWAY" any doubt of those sins ever being repeated. God had taken a persecutor and made a preacher; a murderer and made a missionary, and turned a blasphemer into a blessing. God also used Paul to pen 14 of the 27 Epistles of the New Testament.
Yes, JUDICIALLY, Paul's sins were accounted "paid in full" at the cross. PUBLICLY, they were "washed away," as there remained no doubt in people's minds as to where he stood; remaining faithful to his Lord until his death.
I have taken a little more time with Luther's quote of Acts 22:16, "... arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins," to show the importance of reading the whole context surrounding a verse. Luther was a MASTER at quoting parts of a verse, and omitting the context, in an attempt to make it support his false teaching of baptismal regeneration.
Acts 22:16 is a classic example of one of Luther's deceptions. For some 460 years, since Luther's death in 1546, his puppet preachers have preached his philosophy, leading untold millions into eternal damnation thinking they are saved by being baptized. I have attended several Lutheran funerals and I hear the same thing, without exception. "REMEMBER THEIR BAPTISM."
Luther labels those who disagree with him as "foolish" and "know-it-alls" in his Large Catechism, Page 84. God's answer to Luther, and every other false teacher is this,
"Let the lying lips be put to silence; which speak grievous things proudly and contemptuously against the righteous." (Psalms 31:18).
Luther's "crown jewel" for his pseudo-doctrine of baptismal regeneration turns out to be nothing more than a rhinestone; a piece of cheap glass!"
Luther's Sixth "Sugar Stick" is Galatians 3:26-27 :
"For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. Galatians 3:26-27" (Luther's Small Catechism, P.175, Par.631). This is another one of the "Sugar Stick" verses also used by the Roman Catholic organization which Luther followed. He never broke away from their teaching, as he continued to teach water baptism for salvation, as written in his Catechisms. Here are Luther's own words in his Small Catechism, P. 174, last paragraph.
"II. THE BLESSINGS 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 this." As we examine Luther's claims, we find that the words and promises of God DO NOT declare or promise any such claims as stated in the above paragraph. All one has to do is to read Galatians, Chapter 3, completely; as the entire chapter is presenting, "salvation by FAITH alone," as contrasted to the "works of the law;" or, any good works done out of the flesh.
Baptism is a WORK, defined as such, because Luther is trusting in that human effort for righteousness in order to be saved. In examining the surrounding verses, it becomes very evident that Galatians 3:27 is speaking of SPIRITUAL baptism and not of water baptism. When we place our FAITH in Jesus Christ, and Him alone for our salvation, we are instantaneously placed INTO i.e., baptized into the Spiritual Body of Christ.
Paul is writing under the direction of the Holy Spirit concerning this same Spiritual baptism, that is also recorded in I Corinthians.
"For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit." (1 Corinthians 12:13).
This verse does NOT say, "for by the WATER are we all baptized into one body"; but, "for by ONE SPIRIT." Notice that Paul uses the same language in Galatians in reference to SPIRITUAL baptism as he does in I Corinthians.
"For as many of you as have been baptized (i.e., Spiritually) into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus." (Galatians 3:27).
Notice the underlined words, "have put on Christ." The question some may ask is, "How have I put on Christ, now that I am saved by FAITH in Jesus Christ?" God's Word gives the answer. There are two additional promises that God fulfills, in addition to placing the believer into the Spiritual Body of Christ. The one is internal and the other is external. All three take place simultaneously with salvation by FAITH in Christ Jesus.
The External by Relationship: "Children of God"
"For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus." (Galatians 3:26).
This agrees perfectly with all other Scriptures concerning salvation. We have "put on Christ" by being one of His children. We are spiritually related by accepting Christ as our Savior. The Apostle John agrees, as "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God.." (2 Timothy 3:16). God cannot contradict Himself.
"But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:" (John 1:12).
Notice carefully that Galatians 3:26 would contradict Galatians 3:27, if the baptism is that of water, instead of spiritual baptism. Remember, God does not contradict Himself; BUT, we cannot say the same thing about Martin Luther, who contradicts himself prolifically!
Internal by Ownership: The Indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
"In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise," (Ephesians 1:13).
Upon believing in Christ as one's Savior, that person is SEALED with the Holy Spirit of God, who lives within each and every saved Child of God. This is the new nature that dwells within. This is "ownership" as also stated in Ephesians by the word "SEALED."
"And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption."(Ephesians 4:30).
Now, let us analyze and compare a few of the Scriptures that expose Luther as the "Master of Deceit.," who desires to sift you into believing that your baptism will take you to Heaven. Instead, it is nothing more than a TRAP DOOR TO HELL!
God's Word Exposes Luther's Deceit.
Galatians 3:26. "For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus." (Not baptism).
Galatians 3:24. "Wherefore the law was our school-master to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith." (Not baptism.) Galatians 3:6. "Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness." (No baptism here.)
Galatians 1:3-4 a. "Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, Who gave himself for our sins,..." (No baptism here.)
Galatians 2:16. "Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of (in) Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of (in) Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified."
Here, faith and belief in Christ produces justification, NOT BAPTISM. (No baptism here.) Galatians 3:9. "So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham." (No baptism here.)
Galatians 3:11. "But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith." (No baptism here.)
I have heard many layman and Christian pastors quote Luther as saying "The just shall live by faith." They are, therefore, misled into believing that Luther was a Christian and thinking that he believed the same as they do. Nothing could be further from the truth! It is evident they have never read Luther's Catechisms; but, have passed on the rumors they have heard.
What Luther means when he states that "The just shall live by faith," is FAITH IN WATER BAPTISM FOR SALVATION! Should one doubt this, let me allow Luther to speak again for himself in his Large Catechism.
"In Baptism, therefore, every Christian has enough to study and practice all his life. He always has enough to do to believe firmly what Baptism promises and brings—Victory over death and the devil, forgiveness of sin, God's grace, the entire Christ, and the Holy Spirit with his gifts." (Large Catechism, P, 86, Par. 41).
God will now speak for Himself in Ephesians 1:7.
"In whom we have redemption through his (Christ's) blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;"
Luther is in competition with God over who is going to have the authority over your life. We have just quoted Luther in his Large Catechism; saying that Baptism provides forgiveness of sin; BUT, God says that we have forgiveness of sins through the BLOOD of Christ, NOT the water. Who are you going to believe, Luther, a dead man for 460 years; or Jesus Christ, the true and living Savior?
(Ephesians 2:8-9). "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."
Luther denies Ephesians 2:8-9 and contradicts the Word of God by stating you do not have to have faith to be saved; just be baptized. Again, we allow Luther to speak for himself.
"Further, we are not primarily concerned whether the baptized person believes or not, for in the latter case, Baptism does NOT become invalid." (Large Catechism, P. 87, Par. 52).
"Baptism is valid, even though FAITH be lacking." (Par. 53).
"Even though a Jew should today come deceitfully and with an evil purpose, and we baptized him in all good faith, we should have to admit that his BAPTISM WAS VALID." (Par. 53).
God never contradicts himself; BUT, false teachers continually attempt to contradict God. The Lord would have us to know that:
"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:" (2 Timothy 3:16).
Paul would not have told the Ephesians they were saved "by grace through faith," and then told the Galatians they were saved by water baptism.
Conclusion: All Scriptures agree that Galatians 3:27 is spiritual baptism and NOT water baptism.
Luther's Seventh "Sugar Stick" is Romans 6:3 :
"IT (BAPTISM) DELIVERS FROM DEATH AND THE DEVIL."
"Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Romans 6:3." (Luther's Small Catechism, P.175, Par. 632). Will someone show me anything in this verse that Luther says, "Delivers me from death and the devil?" It does not exist. Here again, Luther violates all principles of Biblical Studies by: (1). Quoting one verse out of context, (2). Failing to compare it with other Scriptures, (3). And then telling you what the verse means, which CONTRADICTS what the verse plainly says!
Where do you find that "baptism delivers from death" in this verse? Where do you find "baptism delivers from the devil" in this verse? And where do you find the word "deliver" in this verse? And where do you find the word "devil" in this verse? Romans 6:3, which Luther quotes in his Catechism to lead you to believe that baptism saves you, contains none of the above.
An Examination of God's Word Reveals Luther's Claim That Baptism Gives Salvation Is Totally False.
For Luther's false claims to be true, ALL Scriptures that deal with salvation would have to include baptism. Let us examine a few of the verses in just the first five chapters of Romans, itself, and see if they agree with Luther's idea of salvation by baptism.
Romans 1:16. "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ (i.e., death and resurrection): for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; ..." (No baptism here.) Romans 1:17. "The just shall live by faith." (Not baptism.)
Romans 3:22. "Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:" (No baptism here.)
Romans 3:24. "Being justified (i.e., declared righteous) freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:" (No baptism here.)
Romans 3:25. "Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation (i.e., payment) through faith in his (Christ's) blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;" (No baptism here.)
Romans 3:26. "To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus." (No baptism here.) Romans 3:28. "Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law." (No baptism here.)
Romans 3:30. "Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision (the Jews) by faith, and uncircumcision (the Gentiles) through faith." (No baptism here.)
Romans 4:3. "For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness." (No baptism here.)
Romans 4:5. "But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness." (No baptism here.)
Romans 4:13. "For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith." (No baptism here.)
Romans 5:1. "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:" (No baptism here.)
Romans 5:9. "Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him (Christ)." (No baptism here.)
Romans 5:10. "...we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life." (No baptism here.)
Romans 5:11. "...but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement (i.e., reconciliation)."(No baptism here.)
In Romans 5:15-18, we find these four verses speak of salvation as a FREE GIFT, as also does Romans 6:23. Baptism is a work of the flesh, a fact which Luther does not want you to believe. The gift of eternal life is what Christ purchased on the cross. He offers this gift to "whosoever will" receive it by FAITH, not by the work of the flesh with the water.
Romans 5:21."That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord." (No baptism here.)
The preceding verses are just the tip of the iceberg of the hundreds that could be given. Luther, if tried in God's court of justice, would be found guilty by God's Word and receive the sentence of all unbelievers and deceitful workers.
"Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:" (Matthew 25:41).
Should one choose to believe Luther's writings over the infallible Word of God, then there is nothing more the Lord can do; but, honor your decision and conclude:
"But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant." (1 Corinthians 14:38).
In examining the first five chapters of Romans, we have found no mention of baptism, whatsoever. These chapters are dealing with our salvation, as shown by the sixteen verses you have just read. Now we come to Romans, Chapter Six, where the whole chapter is dealing with the Christian's life AFTER they are saved. Paul, in Romans 6:1-2, reveals God's will concerning our behavior as a Christian.
"What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?"(V.1).
"God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?"(V.2).
Paul then reminds the Christian of what their public baptism was a testimony of. In other words, by being put under the water, which represents death; and being raised out of the water, which represents resurrection; it is the Christian's public testimony. It shows, symbolically, that their faith is in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ for their salvation.
Baptism also is a testimony that one is not the same person as they were. "Once I was lost; but, now I am saved," as described in 2 Corinthians 5:17.
"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature (Greek, "creation"): old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
This is my POSITION in Christ. This is how Christ looks upon the Christian at the moment they are saved. Now that I am a Christian, the Lord wants me to follow him and WALK like a Christian. This is what Paul describes in Romans 6:3-4.
"Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?" (V.3)
"Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life." (V.4)
I hope one can begin to see how deceptive this man, Martin Luther, really is. He totally disregards the first five chapters of Romans that teach salvation is through Jesus Christ and Him alone. He totally disregards the whole context of Romans 6:1-23 dealing with the Christian's WALK after they are saved. He then extracts Romans 6:3, completely out of context, in an attempt to deceive you into thinking that baptism saves you.
In conclusion: We have God's Word as a warning concerning Luther and all false teachers who PERVERT the Gospel. The Lord addresses these false teachers in Galatians 1:6-7.
"I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him (Christ) that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: (V.6)
Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ." (V.7).
Notice the word "another" which occurs twice in Galatians 1:6-7. When you look these two words up in the Greek, it gives us a little better understanding. They are translated from two different Greek words. In Galatians 1:6, "another" is the Greek word "heteros," i.e., a different Gospel. Then, in Galatians 1:7, "which is not another," (Greek, "allos") Gospel like the one Paul preached. In other words, this was a different Gospel, a false Gospel.
Notice the word "pervert" in Galatians 1:7. It is from the Greek word "metastrepho." "Meta" signifies a change, and "strepho", to turn. In other words, these false teachers would change the truth and turn it into a lie. Martin Luther is a perfect example of someone who does this.
THE TRUTH, in God's Word concerning salvation.
"In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;" (Ephesians 1:7). THE LIE, in Luther's Catechism concerning Salvation.
"...We accept the forgiveness, life, and salvation offered in Baptism and make these blessings our own." (Small Catechism, P. 177, Par. 257).
As one can see, Luther has taken the truth, "salvation by the blood," as stated in God's Word; and turned it into the lie of "salvation by water baptism," as he states in his Catechism.
GOD'S WARNING, concerning the false teachers.
"Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.(V.17).
For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple." (Romans 16:17-18).
ALWAYS REMEMBER the "middle verse of the Bible."
"It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man." (Psalms 118:8).
How can Luther fool so many people? When you talk to Lutherans, you will find that many believe that Christ died and was resurrected as payment for their sins, AND that they have been baptized. Upon being told this, the Christian assumes they are saved just as we are, and then the conversation proceeds no further!
Luther, in his Catechism, states the following:
"I believe that Jesus Christ, true God, begotten of the Father from eternity, and also true man, born of the Virgin Mary, is my Lord, who has redeemed me, a lost and condemned creature, purchased and won me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil; not with gold or silver, but with His holy, precious blood and with His innocent suffering and death, that I may be His own, and live under Him in His kingdom, and serve Him in everlasting righteousness, innocence, and blessedness, even as He is risen from the dead, lives and reigns to all eternity." (Small Catechism, P.100).
Now, if Luther had stopped right here, he would have believed Christ's last words on the cross and have been saved. Christ's last words on the cross were,
"When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is FINISHED: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost." (John 19:30).
But, sad to say, Luther did not stop here. He did not believe that trusting Christ, and Him ALONE, was sufficient for obtaining salvation. Luther believed that Christ and His sufferings and death on the cross only earned eternal salvation and its blessings for us. Although Christ had purchased our salvation and forgiveness of sins by his shed BLOOD on Calvary, it does not go into effect UNTIL we are baptized. Let Luther verify his claims for himself.
"But has not Christ earned all these blessings for us?"
"By His suffering and death Christ has indeed EARNED these blessings for us; BAPTISM, however, is a means by which the Holy Spirit makes these blessings our own, (Baptism is a means of grace)." (Small Catechism, P. 175, Par. 254).
Luther was never a saved man. He did not believe Christ when He said, "It is finished." He believed ABOUT Christ; BUT, he did not believe IN Christ and Him alone for his salvation. The reason Luther did not trust Christ and Him ALONE, is recorded in his Catechism.
"Our know-it-alls, the new spirits (i.e., those who disagree with Luther), assert that faith alone saves and that works and external things contribute nothing to this end...faith must have something to believe—something to which it may cling and upon which it may stand. Thus faith clings to the WATER and believes it to be Baptism, in which there is sheer SALVATION and life..." (Large Catechism, P. 84, Par. 28,29).
One must recognize that no one for four-thousand years, from Adam and Eve to John the Baptist, were ever baptized! Of the two criminals that were crucified with Christ, both mocked Him for the first three hours while on the cross. (Matthew 27:44-45). After three hours, one of the criminals repented (i.e., changed his mind), and realized that this Jesus beside him was truly the Savior of the world.
"And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom." (Luke 23:42).
You cannot possess a kingdom, unless you are a king. He knew Christ was the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He was saved the moment he believed, as Christ immediately assured him of that. Here is the record.
"And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise." (Luke 23:43).
He spent the next three hours on the cross beside his Savior, the Lord Jesus. (Luke 23:44) He possessed eternal life for his faith in Christ; BUT, he was NEVER baptized! His testimony lives on today!