Caleb Hickman's sermon titled "Is Baptism a Work?" delves into the theological understanding of baptism within the context of salvation. He argues that baptism, while an act of obedience and identification with Christ, should not be viewed as a work that contributes to one's salvation. By referencing Philippians 3:3, Hickman emphasizes the danger of placing confidence in fleshly acts, arguing that true salvation comes solely through faith in Christ's completed work. He supports this claim with biblical examples, such as Abraham's faith being credited as righteousness (Genesis 15:6) and the baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3:13-17), asserting that these instances highlight the necessity of looking to Christ as our righteousness, rather than any of our deeds. The practical significance of baptism, therefore, lies not in its efficacy for salvation, but as a public confession of faith and a means of encouragement for believers to collectively affirm their reliance on Christ alone.
“To believe we do anything as part or evidence of salvation is to substitute the covenant of grace for the covenant of works.”
“When we are baptized we are confessing that I can't wash away my sin. But if He did, they're gone. If He did, they're gone. That gives me hope.”
“Baptism is not a work if we're confessing Christ as all of our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.”
“If I have no confidence in the flesh, I'm not going to be looking to my works if I do something. I'm going to be looking to Christ alone as all my hope.”
Baptism signifies a believer's identification with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection, and is an act of obedience rather than a work for salvation.
Matthew 3:13-17, Romans 6:3-4
Baptism is seen as an expression of faith, not a work for salvation, as salvation comes solely through grace and the work of Christ.
Ephesians 2:8-9, Colossians 2:12
Identifying with Christ through baptism is important as it publicly affirms one’s faith and obedience to His command.
Acts 2:38
Baptism signifies the believer's faith and commitment to Christ's redemptive work, acknowledging Him as their righteousness.
1 Peter 3:21
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