Is Baptism a Work?

If we’re saved by grace through faith, why does baptism still matter? An elder in Tennessee wrote in with a question many Christians are asking. If love is the heart of everything, is baptism just a ritual tacked on, a modern circumcision, or a hoop someone must jump through before praying publicly or joining a mission trip? Where did this tension come from, and why do so many sincere believers feel torn between Ephesians 2:8-9 and Acts 2:38? Wes and Marcus wrestle with the history, the Scriptures, and the heart behind the question. Is baptism a work? What does it have to do with circumcision? Is there a way to talk about it that avoids both legalism and dismissiveness? And what does any of it have to do with loving like Jesus? Links and Resources * Why Is Baptism Important and Beautiful with Marcus Stenson: Wes and Marcus’s earlier conversation on baptism, recommended for more on this topic. * Baptism, What Does the Bible Actually Teach: Wes’s earlier conversation with Bobby Harrington on baptism. * Extended Free Trial of Logos Bible Study Software * Books by Wes McAdams * VidAngel Special Offer This description contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend resources we genuinely believe in. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com