By Kevin Cauley

It is clear from the scriptures that in order for one to be saved, one must be baptized (Mark 16:16). Since the word “baptize” is a transliteration from the Greek word “baptizo” the significance of the word is lost to us in the English language. So it is within the context of how the word “baptize” is used that we come to the conclusion that baptism must be immersion. Specifically in Romans 6:1-11 where we are taught that baptism is in the likeness of the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. To be buried, one must be completely immersed in the burial material, in this case, water. For one to be baptized in a way that is not burial (such as pouring or sprinkling) would not be a fulfillment of the need to be buried.

Read more: For Purity of Purpose

By Bill Jackson

A true Bible student comes to appreciate the book of Romans all the more with the passing of time. The appreciation is rooted in an understanding of Paul’s message, which message is not understood by the larger portion of the religious world. The very fact that throughout denominationalism the teaching prevails that men are justified by faith alone proves that these preachers and teachers have not studied Romans. The offense is all the greater because Romans is used as the primary text by these who, while they may have completed studies at their theological seminaries, still lack some fundamental grounding in New Testament truth. They hold positions, supposedly based on Romans, that neither Romans nor any other part of the New Testament will support!

Read more: “Therefore Being Justified by Faith…”

By Mike Riley

It is not uncommon to hear sincere religious folks speak of being saved by “faith only”. They say, “All you have to do is believe in the Lord Jesus Christ”. Their statement is designed to convey the concept that one is saved at the exact point in time when one believes in Jesus. Those who are proponents of “faith only” salvation need to understand that there is a world of difference between salvation “by faith” and salvation “at the point of believing.” The Bible teaches salvation by faith (John 3:16; Romans 5:1; Acts 16:31-34; Mark 16:16; Romans 4) but it does not teach salvation by faith only. If you doubt that statement, then let’s deal honestly with the following observations:

Read more: What About “Faith Only?”

By Mike Riley

All religious groups recognize the importance of faith in relation to salvation. Yet, few understand what true biblical faith really is. The popular idea today is that one can simply “believe in his heart” and immediately he is saved. What does the Bible say about saving faith?

Read more: “Saving Faith”