The one baptism of Ephesians 4:4 is a burial, an immersion in water (Rom. 6:3; Col. 2:12), in the name of Christ (Acts 19:5; Mat. 28:19), in order to receive the remission of sins (Acts 2:38; 22:16) administered only to a penitent believer (Acts 2:38; 8:37; Mark 16:16). When one of theses element is lacking, a “re-baptism” is commanded (cf. Acts 19:1-5).
The importance of this one baptism cannot be biblical denied due to the fact that is has several significant attachments. Baptism is attached one to the blood of Jesus (Rom. 6:3; Jho. 19:34), the body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:13; Eph. 5:25; cf. 1:22-23), all spiritual blessings (Eph. 1:3; Gal. 3:27), the resurrection of Christ (1 Pet. 3:21; Col. 2:12), the forgiveness of sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38) and becoming an heirs of God (Gal. 3:26-29; 1 Jho. 3:1).
Herein are five positive principles involved in this one baptism, without which, baptism is of little or no value to the one who has become a child of God.
¶ Baptism demands a new life (Rom. 6:4).
¶ Baptism demands new affections and interest (Rom. 13:14; Col. 3:1-2).
¶ Baptism demands a new spirit (Jho. 3:3, 5; 2 Tim. 1:7; Gal. 5:22-23).
¶ Baptism demands a new perspective (2 Cor. 4:18; 5:7; 1 Jho. 1:7; Phi. 2:5).
¶ Baptism demands a new God (1 The. 1:3, 8-9).
For far too long men have overlooked the most significant thing regarding baptism, which is a yielded spirit (Rom. 6:16-17). This is the initiatory and primary step regarding any God-given command. God is not looking for a set of mindless, heartless drones. He is looking for men who will worship Him in spirit and in truth (Jho. 4:23-24).
Rick
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