Sermon Baptism In The Book Of Acts

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[2] The title of the sermon today is “BAPTISM IN THE BOOK OF ACTS.”

Let’s Study Baptism In The Book Of Acts

• We’ve done many studies within this church on baptism.
• The majority of so-called “Christians” around here believe water baptism is required for salvation.
• In other words, they teach and preach that you must be baptized in water to go to heaven.
• Within the Bible studies that we do here, we don’t just look at one Scripture.
• We look at the entire Bible from front to back, and we use all the Scriptures.
• Let’s search the Scriptures today. Let’s look for all the Scriptures in the Bible related to baptism.

[3]

1. Baptism
2. Baptisms
3. Baptist
4. Baptist’s
5. Baptize
6. Baptized
7. Baptizest
8. Baptizeth
9. Baptizing

• Those are all of the words related to baptism so we won’t miss one Scripture in the Bible.
• There are 116 matches for all 9 of these words in 91 different Bible verses.

[4]

• You can see the word “baptized” is the one most found within the Bible at 61 times.
• Where are all of these occurrences of these words within the Bible?
• Let’s look at a chart showing all the books of the Bible and the number of occurrences for these words.

[5]

• As you can see, baptism isn’t found within the Old Testament at all. Not even once.
• Baptism is found completely within the New Testament.
• We’ve went through complete studies of all the Scriptures related to baptism.
• But today, we’re going to focus in on one book of the Bible.
• Which book of the Bible talks about baptism the most?

[6]

• Right there at the top is the Book of Acts with 23 verses out of 91 in the Bible.
• So the Book of Acts has 20% or 1/5 of all the baptism verses within the Bible.
• Let’s focus on baptism within Acts today. Let’s go to the first time the word baptized is used in Acts.

[7] Acts 1:1-3 The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, 2 Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen: 3 To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:

[8] Acts 1:4-5 And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. 5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.

• “For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.”
• Jesus was assembled with the apostles and was talking directly to them.
• But notice that there must be different baptisms than just water baptism within the Bible.
• In this Scripture alone, there are 2 different baptisms.
• 1) There’s water baptism that John the Baptist performed. And 2) There’s baptism of the Holy Ghost.
• Water baptism and Holy Ghost baptism.

There Are Different Baptisms Within The Bible

I want to make sure you see that there are 100% without a doubt different baptisms within the Bible.

• What is baptism? Baptism is a full immersion in something.
• Water baptism is being fully surrounded by water. You go all the way under the water.
• You are fully surrounded by water when you are baptized in water.

[9] Matthew 3:16-17 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: 17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

• If we are going to follow the right way of water baptism, whose example would we follow?
• We would follow this example from Jesus Christ right here.
• When Jesus was baptized, He went STRAIGHTWAY OUT OF THE WATER.
• This means He went down into the water completely and comes straight up out of the water.
• And who baptized Jesus Christ? The greatest man to ever live besides Jesus Christ: JOHN THE BAPTIST.
• Jesus Christ chose John the Baptist because he believed and preached the right things.
• John the Baptist was baptizing people the right way.

[10] John 3:23 And John also was baptizing in AEnon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized.

• John didn’t sprinkle water on people. The original baptizer is John the Baptist. How did he do it?
• He baptized in this location because there was MUCH WATER THERE.
• This means MUCH WATER is needed to baptize people the right way.
• Why is that? Because you must be fully immersed in the water. It must fully surround you.
• That’s the baptism of John done the right way. Down into the water and back up out of the water.
• This is how John baptized Jesus Christ, and that’s how we will baptize people here.

So, if John’s baptism of water is full immersion, then what do you think baptism in the Holy Ghost is like?

• Jesus tells His disciples in Acts Chapter 1 that they will be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days from now.
• When we look to Acts Chapter 2, not many days from Acts Chapter 1, we see this baptism of the Holy Ghost.
• Let’s see what this baptism of the Holy Ghost is like.

[11] Acts 2:1-2 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.

• Notice that the house where they were sitting was FILLED with this sound of a rushing mighty wind.
• This means the Holy Ghost was completely FILLING the house they were in.
• For example, if you were going to be baptized with air, that would be right now.
• You are completely surround by air from head to toe.
• These people in that house are fully surrounded with the Holy Ghost. Do you see this?

[12] Acts 2:3-4 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

• These people were FILLED with the Holy Ghost. This wasn’t the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
• This was the baptism of the Holy Spirit coming upon them and filling them.
• In John Chapter 20, we see Jesus giving the indwelling of the Holy Spirit to His disciples.
• Make sure you understand this.

The indwelling of the Holy Spirit was not given until Jesus was resurrected from the dead.

• But the Holy Ghost coming upon people has always been there.
• The Holy Ghost can come upon people any time and then leave any time.
• You see this example in Acts Chapter 2. But the indwelling of the Holy Spirit doesn’t leave you EVER.
• I want to show you what the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is and how you receive it.

[13] John 7:37-39 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. 38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. 39 (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)

• Jesus Christ, the Almighty God, says: “He that believeth on me, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.”
• And what was Jesus speaking about here? “But this spake he of the Spirit.”
• “Which they that believe on him should receive for the Holy Ghost was not yet given.”
• Why was the indwelling of the Holy Ghost not yet given? “Because that Jesus was not yet glorified.”
• This means Jesus wasn’t risen from the dead yet and was not in His glorified body.
• But make sure you see what this says EXACTLY before we move on. Hopefully you already caught this.

Look closely at verse 39. “But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive.”

• John the Baptist and the disciples of Jesus were already baptizing people in water at this time.
• But Jesus speaks of people receiving the Holy Spirit, after He’s risen from the dead, and once they believe on HIM.
• So, look, Jesus didn’t forget to mention water baptism as a requirement to be saved right there.
• He says CLEARLY: “Once they believe on Him, they receive the Holy Ghost.”
• And this will begin to happen once He is in His glorified body after His resurrection.
• And that would be the New Testament after He’s died and arose from the dead.

So, when was the indwelling of the Holy Ghost given because this is what Jesus is talking about right here?

• He’s not talking about Acts Chapter 2 when they are baptized with the Holy Ghost.
• The baptism of the Holy Ghost in Acts Chapter 2 was for other reasons.
• It wasn’t for salvation of those particular people.

People Who Are Saved SHOULD Get Baptized

Those particular people who were baptized with the Holy Ghost in Acts Chapter 2 were already saved people.

• They already believed on Jesus Christ. Were His disciples already saved men?
• Or did they need Acts Chapter 2 to be saved? What do you think?
• Do you think Peter needed to be baptized in the Holy Ghost in Acts Chapter 2 to be saved? NO WAY.
• And let me show you why. Remember, Jesus says that the Holy Ghost will be given once He is glorified.
• When does this happen? It’s not Acts Chapter 2 when they are baptized with the Holy Ghost.
• It happens before then. Let’s look to John Chapter 20.
• Do you know what happens in John Chapter 20? Jesus arose from the dead after His death on the cross.
• Let’s go there and watch this.

[14] John 20:16-18 Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master. 17 Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God. 18 Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things unto her.

[15] John 20:19-20 Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. 20 And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord.

[16] John 20:21-23 Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: 23 Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained.

• Look very closely there at verse 22. “And when he had said this, HE BREATHED ON THEM.”
• “And saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost.” Notice how Jesus did this. He breathed on them.
• The Holy Ghost is coming from within Jesus Christ, through His breath, and into the disciples.
• The indwelling of the Holy Ghost is breathed in to them. They Holy Spirit now lives inside of them.
• Do you see this? This happens right after Jesus Christ arises from the dead. The same day at evening.

50 days later is Pentecost in Acts Chapter 2. PENTE means 50. Acts Chapter 2 was 50 days later.

• Jesus stayed on earth after His resurrection for 40 days.
• After He ascended, Pentecost happened 10 days later.
• This is something totally different than the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Do you see this?
• John Chapter 20 is 50 days BEFORE Acts Chapter 2 and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is given.
• Those disciples who are baptized with the Holy Ghost in Acts Chapter 2 already had the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
• Did they not? Am I making this up? Am I mixed up about the Bible? I can assure you I am not.

[17] John 14:15-17 If ye love me, keep my commandments. 16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.

• The Comforter is the Spirit of truth which He gives us and abides with us forever.
• Verse 16 says, “That HE may abide with you forever.”
• And when do you get the indwelling of the Holy Spirit?
• Jesus just said, in John Chapter 7, that you receive the Spirit once you believe on Him.”
• Now, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit never leaves you. You cannot lose the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
• Here’s the exact process to salvation. If you want to be saved today, here’s how it works:

[18] Ephesians 1:12-14 That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. 13 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, 14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.

• What’s the first step to being saved? 1) Hear the word of truth, which is the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
• What’s the next step to being saved? 2) Trust in Jesus Christ. Believe on Jesus Christ.
• Trusting in Jesus Christ is putting all your trust on Him alone to save you.
• Believing on Jesus Christ is putting all your faith on Him alone to save you.
• This means 100% without a doubt that water baptism is not a part of salvation in any way, shape, or form.
• “In whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise.”

Hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ, believe on Jesus Christ to save you, and receive the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

• This indwelling of the Holy Spirit will never leave you. The Spirit of Christ now lives within you.
• Notice that the disciples, in John Chapter 20, didn’t go crazy when they received the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
• They didn’t jump around, fall on the floor and shake, speak in babble, or anything similar.
• They didn’t perform some great feat of strength.
• It’s very important you understand these things and all the examples within the Bible.

If I fully trust you to do something for me, I have faith in you. Right?

• If I have faith in you to pick me up tomorrow at 7:00 AM, then I trust you fully to pick me up at 7:00 AM.
• You told me you would pick me up at 7:00 AM.
• If I start calling you later to make sure you’re going to pick me up, I don’t truly have faith in you.
• If I have a backup plan, then I don’t fully trust you to pick me up.
• Jesus Christ says, “Trust in me. When you die, I will be there to pick you up. I’ll be there.”
• Do you think you have to help Him with your good works? Do you not fully trust in Jesus Christ?
• Listen to His actual words. He never says it takes anything else to be saved.
• He never once says that YOU MUST BE BAPTIZED IN WATER to be saved. Not once.

So, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit SEALS YOUR SOUL. Your soul is now fully surrounded by the Holy Spirit.

• You can say that your soul is baptized by the indwelling of the Holy Ghost.
• Verse 14 says, “Ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise.”
• This means your soul cannot sin. Your body or flesh still sins, but your soul is saved and protected.
• Who is protecting your soul from all sin now? THE HOLY SPIRIT. You should try thanking the Holy Spirit.
• He’s protecting you. He is God. God has saved you. You have everlasting life once you believe on Jesus.
• Once you put everything on Him, then you have faith in Him. I don’t have a backup plan.
• I don’t need a backup plan because if there’s anyone I can trust that would be Jesus Christ.

He’s given me life. He put me here right now. He keeps my heart beating and my lings working every single day.

• He gives me food. He gives me water. He gives me sunlight. He gives me life. I can trust Him.
• He doesn’t show up late. He doesn’t forget about me. He is going to save me.
• I 100% trust in Jesus Christ, and I know there is absolutely NOTHING else I need to do to be saved.
• I know 100% that it is Jesus Christ ALONE who saves me. He is “THE” Savior of the world.
• And there is no other Savior. He saves. We don’t save ourselves through or good works.
• Water baptism is a good work that shows our obedience to God.
• Before we are baptized in water, we should be saved with everlasting life by believing on Jesus Christ.
• Once we do that, we have the indwelling of the Holy Spirit forever. That’s what Jesus Himself says.

When The Holy Ghost Comes With Power, He Doesn’t Stay Forever

So, let me ask you this: In Acts Chapter 2, did the Holy Ghost stay there forever when He filled the room?

• No, He didn’t. He came that day to do a miracle. It wasn’t to save the disciples.
• He was there to do a miracle and then leave. Look throughout the Bible.
• You’ll see this happen many times. The Holy Ghost will come upon people with power and then leave.
• He’ll come back again and then leave. But the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is totally different.
• And the Bible says so. John Chapter 20 is different than Acts Chapter 2.
• Why did the Holy Ghost come to baptize them in Acts Chapter 2? Let’s see.

[19] Acts 2:5-6 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. 6 Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language.

• Speaking in tongues is a miracle performed by the Holy Ghost right here in Acts Chapter 2.
• There were men out every nation under heaven. EVERY NATION.
• The nations were divided by their tongues or languages.
• That means they couldn’t understand each other UNTIL the Holy Ghost came and performed this miracle.

For example, if there were people who spoke Spanish, French, and German in the room, they would hear me speaking right now in their own language.

• But I don’t know Spanish, French, and German and I would be speaking in English.
• This miracle of speaking in other tongues is not BABBLE.
• Speaking in tongues would be me speaking English and all the others hearing me speak in their native language.

[20] Acts 2:7-9 And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? 8 And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? 9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia,

[21] Acts 2:10-12 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. 12 And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?

[22] Acts 2:13-15 Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine. 14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: 15 For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day.

• The people couldn’t believe what was happening. Peter stands up to preach. He is bold.

[23] Acts 2:16-17 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; 17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:

[24] Acts 2:18-20 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: 19 And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come:

[25] Acts 2:21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.

• This miracle was done so all of these people could hear Peter’s preaching and be saved.
• Remember the steps to salvation that we just learned in Ephesians Chapter 1.
• Hear the word of truth, believe on Jesus Christ, and receive the indwelling of the Holy Ghost.

And what should you do directly AFTER you’re saved? You should be baptized in water.

• This is you saying that you believe in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• Water baptism is a picture of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• When Jesus was baptized, He was prophesying about His death, burial, and resurrection.
• John was baptizing in water to show that Jesus would die, be buried, and arise again.
• Do you see this? When you are baptized, you are agreeing with the death of Jesus Christ.
• When you go under the water, you are agreeing with the burial of Jesus Christ.
• When you arise out of the water, you are agreeing with the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

It’s not you actually dying. Do you actually die when you go under the water? No, you don’t.

• Are you actually buried in a tomb? No, you aren’t. Do you actually arise from the dead? No, you don’t.
• But Jesus Christ did do all of those things. You get baptized in water to show you agree with this.
• You are outwardly showing that you believe on Jesus Christ.
• We can’t see the faith of each other, but we can see the works of each other.
• If someone is baptized, they are telling me that they believe FULLY on Jesus Christ.

Peter Preaches So People Will Trust In Jesus Christ BEFORE They Are Baptized

So, Peter is preaching right here through the Holy Ghost to save people. He is preaching so they will trust in Jesus.

• What does Peter say right there in verse 21?
• “Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

[26] Romans 10:13-14 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. 14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?

• If you believe on Jesus Christ, you will be saved. Hear the word of truth, believe on Jesus, and be saved.
• Simply ask Jesus Christ to save you. He’ll hear you IF you believe on Him and trust Him.
• Peter just preached and said: “Whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
• For some reason, people think he messes up later in the chapter and preaches something different.
• But obviously, he’s preaching through the Holy Ghost and God is not confused. Peter isn’t confused.
• Acts 2:21 matches perfectly with Acts 2:38. Let’s keep reading. Listen to this preaching.
• If you’ve never been saved, you can be saved right now by hearing this word of truth and believing.

[27] Acts 2:22-23 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: 23 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:

• Peter says, “You crucified and slain this man approved of God who lived among you and did miracles.”
• Isn’t it amazing that I can stand here and preach the same thing Peter preached that day? It is amazing.

[28] Acts 2:24-26 Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it. 25 For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved: 26 Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope:

• Peter says, “God raised up Jesus. Death couldn’t hold Him. David spoke concerning this man.”
• “I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved.”
• “This is the man that you killed. He was with David right there beside him.”
• “David rejoiced to have Jesus Christ with him, but you all killed that man.”

[29] Acts 2:27-29 Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. 28 Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance. 29 Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day.

[30] Acts 2:30-31 Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne; 31 He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.

• Peter says that David was a prophet and spoke of Jesus Christ, the fruit of his loins.
• Jesus is the Son of David through the flesh. Jesus is that CHRIST. The soul of Jesus went to hell for you.
• But His soul was not left in hell. Christ has been resurrected. His resurrection is His body from the tomb.
• And His soul from hell. That is the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

[31] Acts 2:32-33 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. 33 Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.

• Peter is saying that God did all of this. The Holy Ghost is here right now and He’s doing this.
• You now hear this and see this because the Holy Ghost is here.
• Peter says that God raised up Jesus, and I’ve seen Him. He says, “We are witnesses.”
• We saw Him die, and we saw Him after He arose from the dead. He’s not dead. He’s alive.

[32] Acts 2:34-36 For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, 35 Until I make thy foes thy footstool. 36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

• Peter says, “You know that man that you crucified? He is both LORD AND CHRIST.”
• That’s perfect preaching from Peter through the Holy Ghost.
• Now, let’s get to the verses that no one seems to get right in the churches.

[33] Acts 2:37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?

• They were pricked in their heart. Would you be if you actually cared at all?
• They killed the Savior, but the Savior is now alive. What shall we do?

[34] Acts 2:38 Then 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 gift of the Holy Ghost.

• Now, this verse is actually very simple and easy to understand.
• Does this verse teach that you must be baptized in water to receive remission of sins?
• Does this verse command you to repent of your sins to receive remission of sins?
• NO to both. Peter didn’t get confused between Acts 2:21 and Acts 2:38. They say the same thing.
• REPENT COMMA AND BE BAPTIZED. What is repent in this verse? What does it mean?

Does it say repent of your sin and be baptized? No, it doesn’t.

• Did you know the exact phrases “repent of your sin” or “repent of sin” is not in the Bible ONCE?
• God repented in the Bible many times. He actually repents more than anyone else in the Bible.
• This obviously means that repent doesn’t always equal repent of your sin.
• And right here, REPENT, doesn’t mean to repent of your sin.
• What does repent mean for salvation? John the Baptist preached repentance before he baptized people.
• What was John the Baptist preaching? The Book of Acts tells us what he preached.

[35] Acts 19:4 Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.

• John baptized with the baptism of repentance. What does that mean?
• John wouldn’t baptize unless someone repented. What was John the Baptist preaching prior to baptizing?
• This Scripture tells you. What is repentance for salvation?
• “They should believe on Him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.”
• In order to be saved, YOU MUST BELIEVE ON CHRIST JESUS. This is what John the Baptist was preaching.
• Water baptism doesn’t play a part in salvation.
• Repentance is changing your mind COMPLETELY and believing ON Jesus Christ alone.
• Let’s look at Acts 2:38 closely again.

[36] Acts 2:38 Then 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 gift of the Holy Ghost.

• Notice that repent is between 2 commas there. REPENT.
• Study the word repent throughout the entire Bible. We just learned what John the Baptist was preaching.
• He’s preaching repentance, which means to believe on Jesus Christ FULLY.
• The Gospel of John was written that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ.
• And that believing we might have life through HIS NAME. The Gospel of John was written to save people.
• The word repent is not in the Gospel of John once. But the word BELIEVE is there many times.
• Repentance for salvation is a FULL CHANGE OF MIND to believing ON Jesus Christ.

First Repent Or Believe On Jesus Christ (Saved) And Then Be Baptized In Water

REPENT COMMA and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ FOR the remission of sins.

• What does this verse actually say? REPENT. For salvation, repentance is believing on Jesus Christ.
• The entire Bible teaches that we must BELIEVE to be saved. We must have faith to be saved.
• Faith is not works in any way. Water baptism is a work that you must do.
• You must obey God to be baptized. Works do not save you.
• If this verse said so, Jesus would be lying to us in the Gospel of John. And He’s not.
• First, repent. This does not mean repent of your sin.
• This means change your mind and believe fully on Jesus Christ. ACTS 19:4 JUST SAID THIS.

Once you believe on Jesus Christ and are saved, what should you do next? BE BAPTIZED IN WATER.

• You already have the indwelling of the Holy Spirit once you believe “ON” Jesus Christ.
• Be baptized for the remission of sins. A definition of the word FOR is BECAUSE OF.
• So, let’s insert because of into the verse in the place of for so you understand.
• Be baptized BECAUSE OF the remission of sins. This is why you should be baptized.
• BECAUSE YOU HAVE RECEIVED THE REMISSION OF SINS ALREADY.
• For example, if you take an aspirin for your headache, you are taking an aspirin because of the headache.
• You aren’t taking an aspirin so you can get a headache.
• You aren’t being baptized so you can get remission of sins. Make sure you see this and understand this.

This is simple English. Don’t twist the words of Scripture so they don’t agree with the rest of the Scriptures.

• For every verse that you come up with that you think says BAPTISM saves you, there are 10 times the number of verses that say believing in or on Jesus saves you.
• There are hundreds and hundreds within the Bible that teach it is only Jesus Christ who saves.
• We are saved by the grace of God meaning we don’t do any works to be saved. IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD.
• You can’t be saved by the grace of God and add any works at all to salvation.
• Grace means you don’t deserve salvation. If you did good works to deserve it, then it wouldn’t be grace.

[37] Romans 11:6 And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

• God is saying that GRACE and WORKS can’t go together in ANY WAY possible.
• Water baptism is a work. If you don’t think so, you’ve lost it. You’re trying to twist God’s word.
• Changing your mind and believing something is not work.
• You can sit in your chair and believe what I’m saying. You aren’t doing any physical work.
• Baptism in water takes physical work. And we are not saved by works.

[38] Ephesians 2:8-10 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

• This is clearly talking about salvation. NOT OF WORKS lest any man should boast.
• If water baptism saved you, we could boast about this.
• We could get baptized 100 times and say, LOOK, I’ve been baptized 100 times.
• “I was baptized by the Apostle Paul. Were you baptized by the Apostle Paul?”

[39] 1 Corinthians 1:13-16 Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? 14 I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; 15 Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name. 16 And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other.

[40] 1 Corinthians 1:17-18 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. 18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.

• Again, preaching the truth or hearing the word of truth JUST LIKE Peter was preaching and believing that truth is what saves people.
• Paul is saying that water baptism doesn’t save people. “For Christ sent me not to baptize.”
• “But to preach the Gospel.” The preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is what saves you.

[41] John 4:2 (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,)

• Jesus Christ HIMSELF didn’t baptize anyone. Why would that be? Water baptism doesn’t save you.
• It’s simply a like figure of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• Jesus didn’t baptize anyone Himself, but do you know what He did instead?
• He preached, He taught, He preached, He taught, He showed them who He was.
• When Jesus healed people, He didn’t tell them to go get baptized and come back.
• He didn’t tell them to go do some good work and come back later to be healed.

[42] Mark 5:33-34 But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth. 34 And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague.

• What made her whole? HER FAITH MADE HER WHOLE. Not her good works.

[43] Mark 5:35-36 While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house certain which said, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master any further? 36 As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe.

• ONLY BELIEVE. This is what Jesus Christ says. Notice all of these examples for you. ONLY BELIEVE.
• Peter is preaching in Acts 2:38 for them to change their mind and believe on Jesus Christ the one they crucified.
• Once they believe, they should be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ because they have received remission of sins.
• Once they believe, they receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
• THEN, be baptized because you have been forgiven of your sins. This is very easy to understand.
• And this interpretation of Acts 2:38 matches with the entire Bible front to back.

Jesus Christ Is Not Lying To Us In John 6:47 And Baptism In Water Is Not A Part Of “Believing”

[44] John 6:47-48 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life. 48 I am that bread of life.

• You can’t look at Acts 2:38 and say that you must repent of your sins and be baptized without calling Jesus Christ HIMSELF a liar right there.
• Works are not a part of believing. Believing does not include WORKS.
• Believing is all within your mind and includes no physical movement at all. NOT OF WORKS.
• Jesus says, “I AM THAT BREAD OF LIFE.” Salvation is through Jesus Christ alone and not of works.
• Now, with all that said, let’s look at the baptisms within the Book of Acts.
• Remember, there are 23 instances of the word baptize within the Book of Acts.
• Let’s look at these again from the beginning of the Book of Acts.

[45] Acts 1:5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.

[46] Acts 1:22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.

• This is talking about a new disciple to replace Judas Iscariot who is now dead at this time.
• The replacement had to be there for the baptism of John and witness the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

[47] Acts 2:38 Then 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 gift of the Holy Ghost.

[48] Acts 2:41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

• Those who gladly received Peter’s preaching, in other words they BELIEVED, were baptized.
• The pre-requisite for baptism in water is to believe on Jesus Christ first and be saved first.
• Then, you should be baptized. And baptism in water is very important but it doesn’t save you. Jesus does.

[49] Acts 8:12-13 But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13 Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.

• Preaching, hearing the word of God, and then believing on Jesus Christ is what saves you.
• Then, BAPTISM is a totally different step outside of salvation. This is the first step in obedience to God.
• And baptism is an outward showing of the inward faith that you have.
• You shouldn’t be ashamed to show people you believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.

[50] Acts 8:14-17 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: 15 Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: 16 (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) 17 Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.

• They were baptized previously in the name of the Lord Jesus. They had the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
• We talked about this earlier.
• The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is different than the Holy Spirit coming upon you.

You can see this throughout the Old Testament. The Holy Spirit would come upon them.

• But they didn’t have the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament.
• They laid their hands on them to anoint them and to fill them with the Holy Ghost.
• This makes them BOLD to preach the Gospel throughout. God wants His words spread.
• So, I’m going through all the instances of baptism in the Book of Acts. Let’s continue.

[51] Acts 8:35-38 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. 36 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? 37 And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. 38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.

• Notice what happens here. Jesus is preached to this man. The man believes on Jesus Christ.
• And then he is baptized. The man is saved before he is baptized because Jesus says so.
• Jesus says over and over again, “He that believeth on me HATH everlasting life.”
• When this man believed on Jesus Christ, he received everlasting life. And then he was baptized.
• Acts Chapter 8 gives us the exact order of salvation.

The Book of Acts Shows The Order To Salvation: Hear About Jesus, Believe On Him, Be Saved, And Then Be Baptized In Water Professing Your Faith In Christ

[52] Acts 9:10-12 And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. 11 And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, 12 And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.

• Saul is Paul. Jesus showed up to Paul and Paul believed on Jesus Christ, obviously.
• Paul was persecuting Christians. Jesus told him he was wrong. And he believed Jesus.
• God tells Ananias to find Saul and put his hand on him so he would receive his sight.
• Remember, Paul couldn’t see right now. He was blinded earlier. This is talking about his actual eyesight.

[53] Acts 9:13-15 Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: 14 And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. 15 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:

[54] Acts 9:16-17 For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name’s sake. 17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.

[55] Acts 9:18 And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.

• Paul isn’t just saved with the indwelling of the Holy Ghost but he’s going to be filled with the Holy Ghost.
• After this, he is baptized. He receives the Holy Ghost before he is baptized.
• He is saved before he is baptized. Is that not what the Bible is saying here? Look at the order.
• And please remember, Acts Chapter 9 is AFTER Acts Chapter 2.

[56] Acts 10:34-36 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. 36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)

[57] Acts 10:37-38 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.

• This is Peter preaching again. The word was published after the baptism which John preached.
• That’s another instance of the word baptism in the Book of Acts.
• Acts Chapter 10 is very important to understand. What was Peter preaching right here in Acts Chapter 10?
• Let’s see what he says as he continues preaching the word of truth.

[58] Acts 10:43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.

• Peter preaches that remission of sins is given once someone believe in Jesus Christ. Does he not?
• And the Bible says right here that ALL THE PROPHETS knew this. Abel knew this.
• Abraham knew this. David knew this. Daniel knew this. Jeremiah knew this. ALL OF THEM.
• Through the name of God’s MESSIAH, they would receive remission of sins. Not through baptism.
• “Whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.” Acts 2:38 matches this perfectly.

[59] Acts 10:44-45 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. 45 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.

• This was not the indwelling of the Holy Ghost but Holy Ghost coming upon them with power.
• Why did this happen? This miracle was done for a sign to Peter and the disciples.
• But notice, all of these other people were not baptized yet. They are baptized in the next verses.
• These people heard the word and the Holy Ghost falls upon them.

[60] Acts 10:46-48 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, 47 Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

• God did this to show Peter and the others that the Gentiles can receive the Holy Ghost too.
• THEN THEY WERE BAPTIZED IN THE NAME OF THE LORD.

[61] Acts 11:15-17 And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning. 16 Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. 17 Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?

• Here are some more instances of the word baptize in the Book of Acts.
• Notice what you never see. You never see BAPTISM as a requirement to be saved. Not once.
• It’s not in the Bible. Water baptism occurs AFTER you’ve been saved. Should be first thing.

[62] Acts 11:18 When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.

• Repentance leads to life. A change of mind to believing on Jesus Christ gives life everlasting.
• Repentance does not equal baptism in any way, shape, or form. Let’s keep going in the Book of Acts.
• The baptism of repentance means to be fully immersed in this change of mind to Jesus Christ alone.
• When you finally have that full baptism of repentance, you’ll know it. All your trust goes on Jesus Christ.

A Full Baptism In Jesus Christ Means Fully Believing On Him

[63] Acts 13:24 When John had first preached before his coming the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel.

• In Acts Chapter 13, you’ll see them preaching Jesus Christ. HE IS THE SAVIOR.
• Your baptism is not your savior. JESUS CHRIST is THE SAVIOR. His works save you. Yours don’t.
• I would love to go over the entire chapter with you, but we don’t have time. Read it yourself.
• But you’ll see this in Acts Chapter 13.

[64] Acts 13:38-39 Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins: 39 And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.

• By Jesus Christ ALONE all that believe are justified from all things.
• You can’t be justified by obeying God’s laws through works.
• A commandment from God is for you to be baptized. Baptism is a work. Repenting of sin is a work.
• Doing works of the law will not save you in any way, shape, or form.

[65] Acts 16:14-15 And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul. 15 And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.

• This woman, Lydia, worshipped the Lord before she was baptized. She was already a saved woman.

[66] Acts 16:29-30 Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell down before Paul and Silas, 30 And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?

• Watch the exact order of events here. The man asks, “WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED?”
• What’s the answer? You’ll see believe on the Lord Jesus Christ only.
• You’ll see preaching, believing, and THEN baptizing.

[67] Acts 16:31-33 And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. 32 And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house. 33 And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes; and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.

• They heard the preaching, they believed on Jesus Christ, and then they were baptized.
• “Washed their stripes” means the prison keeper washed the stripes that Paul and Silas received from being cast into prison.
• It’s not talking about water baptism washing your sins away.
• The blood of Jesus Christ ALONE cleanses you. The stripes were washed before the baptism in that verse.

[68] Acts 18:7-8 And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man’s house, named Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue. 8 And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.

• They believed and then they were baptized.
• “Whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
• Baptism in water doesn’t save you.

[69] Acts 18:24-25 And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. 25 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.

[70] Acts 19:3-4 And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John’s baptism. 4 Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.

[71] Acts 19:5-6 When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.

• We’ve went over these Scriptures. You must first believe on Jesus Christ to be saved.
• Then you should be baptized. You receive the indwelling of the Holy Spirit once you believe.
• Paul laid his hands on them for a miracle of the Holy Ghost coming upon them with power.
• Let’s look closely at the last verse in the Book of Acts that discusses baptism. LOOK CLOSELY.

[72] Acts 22:16 And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.

• This is Paul preaching and saying what happened to him when he was blind and Ananias came to him.
• He told Paul to arise, be baptized, wash away thy sins. How would Paul do this?
• What’s the end of the verse say? CALLING ON THE NAME OF THE LORD.
• Calling upon the name of the Lord is what saves you because you must first believe on Him to call Him.

Be Baptized In Christ Alone

You must be baptized in CHRIST ALONE. A baptism in Christ is a full immersion in Christ alone.

• You can’t be saved unless you fully believe on Jesus Christ alone.
• You must know that it’s only Jesus who saves. He washes away your sins. Water baptism doesn’t.
• If it could, we would just be baptized in water at the end of every day and right before we died.
• We wouldn’t need Jesus Christ if water baptism washed our sins away. Understand this.
• Don’t allow people to twist the Scriptures. Calling on Jesus Christ is what saves you.

[73] 1 Corinthians 6:11 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.

• Being baptized in Christ doesn’t mean water baptism. The Holy Spirit comes and indwells you.
• He surrounds your soul and protects your soul from sin.
• It says right there: “But ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, AND BY THE SPIRIT OF GOD.”
• You are washed by the SPIRIT OF GOD. This happens when you trust in Jesus Christ and are born again.
• THEN, by all means, you should be baptized in water immediately.

[74] 1 Peter 3:21-22 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ: 22 Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.

• Most false preachers will not read the entire verse. They take the parts they want.
• “Even baptism doth now also save us.” They think it means baptism in water saves us.
• The beginning of the verse tells you what it means. Water baptism is a like figure.
• What’s baptism a like figure of? The death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
• If you believe in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and you haven’t been baptized, you should be baptized right now.
• Everything is ready for you.

[75] John 5:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

• Jesus didn’t forget to mention that you must be baptized in water to receive everlasting life.
• I hope this has helped you to further understand that water baptism doesn’t save you, but it’s the first act of obedience you SHOULD do for God once He saves you.

Let’s pray.