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Q. What does baptism represent or symbolize? Do you have to be baptized to go to heaven? (Submitted by: Yvette) A. According to the Bible, baptism is a requirement for salvation (Mark 16:16; Titus 3:5). Baptism pictures the death and burial of our old self and our resurrection to a new life in Jesus Christ (Romans 6:1-11). It is a physical demonstration of repentance (Acts 2:37-38), and faith in Jesus Christ (Mark 16:16; Acts 8:36-37). When baptized, our sins are forgiven, and spiritually washed away (Acts 22:16). The physical act of baptism is not what cleanses us of sin (1 Peter 3:21), it is not some magical act, but a symbolic ceremony in which we express repentance, faith in Jesus, and the willingness to live a new life in Christ. For more information on the subject of baptism, please see the following material: In your question you wrote of going to heaven. Surprising as this may sound, the Bible does not teach that Christians will go to heaven.
Answer Given By: Calvin Lashway |
