Baptism
The majority opinion of the church today is that baptism is merely a public act of faith and is not necessary to be saved! Nowhere in the bible does it say be baptized as a public display of faith.
Book - One baptism by Jeff McFadden available from What does Jesus Himself say on this matter:
"He who has believed and is baptized shall be saved; but he who has disbelieved shall be condemned." (Mark 16:16)
It goes without saying that those who do not believe will not be baptized in the first place, that is why Jesus does not mention it in the second part of this verse.Word of God: Belief + Baptism = Saved 
Word of Man: Belief = Saved + Shall be baptized 
"Jesus answered and said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." (John 3:3)
Unless one is born again, he cannot enter heaven. How are we born again?"Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except one be born of water and the spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God." (John 3:5)
Some say that being born of water is a reference to being born, but remember Jesus is talking about being BORN AGAIN. Being born of water and spirit is a perfect description of baptism, see Acts 2:38.
Purpose of baptismUpdated 20th August 2006
