1 Peter 3:21 KJV
[21] “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:”
Baptismal regeneration was imported by the Roman Catholic Church. An infant cannot find the answer of a good conscience through baptism because an infant has no conscience. Baptism pictures the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. It is also a picture of what happens to a sinner at the moment of salvation. When we come to Christ, we are dead in our trespasses and sins. When we trust Christ, we are buried with Him in baptism and raised by the Almighty to walk in the newness of life. We experience abundant life by the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
We have the assurance that because He arose on the third day, we will be glorified and live with Him in eternity. Baptism is a picture of the gospel taking place in the life of a sinner. It is a public profession of our faith in Christ, but baptism does not save our souls.
Just as the ark was a picture and a type of Christ, so is baptism. These were to be figures and types only. Baptism is the first command of obedience for new converts and should be performed immediately after salvation. Partaking in believer’s baptism will lead to spiritual growth for the new convert. It pleases the Lord and brings the new believer satisfaction in his new walk with Christ.
I understand that we must be careful not to baptize someone who we feel is not saved. I think it’s wise to spend time teaching new converts about baptism. We should also use discernment in deciding whether or not they have a clear understanding of their profession in Christ. Yet, at the same time, we must help a new convert go forward in their walk with God. We should encourage them to follow the Lord in believer’s baptism and strengthen their walk with God.
Dear reader, have you followed the Lord in baptism? If not, you must do so now to move forward in your faith. Talk to your pastor, and make plans for baptism. Remember, it is not baptism that saves but the blood of Jesus. It’s not what we can do to receive salvation but what He has already done. Remember, baptism is the answer of a good conscience. Baptism is a type and a testimony before others. Every believer should follow the Lord in being scripturally baptized.