The Lord had by word and deed made it abundantly evident that He was the Son Of God, yet the Jews came to Him and asked, "How long dost thou hold us in suspense? If thou art the Christ, tell us plainly" (Jno. 10: 24). The Lord has spoken plainly concerning other matters and yet people choose to remain in ignorance and confusion. They could see the truth if they were willing simply to accept what the Lord has said. For example:

Is baptism essential to salvation?

Jesus said, "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that disbelieveth shall be condemned" (Mk. 16:16). That's plain enough, isn't it?

Is baptism related to the remission of sins?

Peter, in making known the law of Christ, said, "Repent ye, and be baptized every one of you in the* name of Jesus Christ unto the remission of your sins; and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38). That's plain enough, isn't it, friend?

What kind of music do you want in worship, Lord?

"Speaking one to another, in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord" (Eph. 5:19). Surely, that's plain enough, isn't it?

Why did the Lord's disciples assemble each first day of the week?

"And upon the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paid discoursed with them,, intending to depart on the morrow; and prolonged his speech until midnight" (Acts 20:7). No difficulty here. The answer is plain. Isn't it?

By what name were the disciples called in apostolic days?

" the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch" (Acts 11:26). No one should have difficulty with this clear statement.

Is obedience essential as well as faith?

"Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; and being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that, obey him" (Heb. 5:8,9). That's clear, I would say. Wouldn't you?

Must one continue to render righteous works after becoming a child of God in order to reach heaven?

"So then, my beloved, even as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling" (Phil. 2:12). One should have no difficulty with this passage. It's clear enough.

How is baptism performed? Is it sprinkling or is it a burial? An immersion?

" having been buried with him in baptism, wherein ye were also raised with him through faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead" (Col. 2:12). Isn't that clear, friend? One should have no further difficulty regarding the action of baptism. Jesus has told us plainly in His word.

Jesus told the Jews that they did not believe even after He had told them His true identity (Jno. 10:25). The evidence was there, yet they rejected it. Jesus has forever settled all the issues above. But will you accept His Word? We hope most sincerely that you will.

TRUTH MAGAZINE, XV: 48, p. 2
October 14, 1971