Is Water Baptism Necessary For Salvation?

Paul says no.

1 Corinthians 1:14 I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius; 15 Lest any should say that I had baptized in mine own name. 16 And I baptized also the household of Stephanas: besides, I know not whether I baptized any other. 17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. 18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.....21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.

Evidence to support this in the Book of Acts. Do note in verse 43 below how one receives remission of sins simply by believing in Him.

Acts 10:43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. 44 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. 45 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, 47 Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

So water baptism is an ordinance for new saved believers to follow, but it is not a requirement to be saved when believing in Him is how one receives remission of sins & the promise of the Holy Ghost at their salvation..

Do feel free to vote in the poll where you stand on this issue regarding water baptism.

 

When the opportunity has been provided by the Lord Jesus Christ for water baptism, believers should be encouraged to do it, but the believer is saved without water baptism, since Paul certainly did not place emphasis on it when preaching the gospel for any one to be saved by.

Also, when a baptized believer falls away and then repent, he does not need to get water baptized again. Asking Jesus Christ for forgiveness and giving a public testimony in church that he or she has repented is enough to be accepted back into the assembly, while he or she prays that the Lord Jesus Christ will keep them from committing that sin again.