Challenging Baptismal Regeneration: A Biblical Critique

Baptismal Regeneration Is a False Teaching

Baptismal regeneration refers to a theological belief according to which baptism plays an essential role in establishing spiritual rebirth and salvation. This doctrine, however, implies that the sacrament of baptism, commonly by water, is not only a symbol but is also based on a mystery and truly gives grace; it cleanses sin from the soul’s impurities and spiritually rejuvenates; consequently, this makes a new person through Christ.
The Christian faith has several denominations that interpret and stress baptismal regeneration differently. In particular, the Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, Lutheran Church, and some Anglican traditions are firm proponents of the notion that baptism is a sacrament through which God’s grace is given and spiritual rebirth takes place. Salvation and baptism are thus closely connected in these traditions as they read scriptures like John 3:5, which talks about being born from water and Spirit, or Acts 22:16.

How do we biblically disprove baptismal regeneration?

Examining the context of the provided verses, and understanding the specific meaning of the word ‘baptism’ within that context allows for a clear biblical disapproval of salvation through the act of baptism.

Example 1

“He who has believed and has been baptized shall be saved; but he who has disbelieved shall be condemned.” ‭‭Mark‬ ‭16‬:‭16‬ ‭[NASB1995‬‬]

Concerning Mark chapter 16 beyond verse 8, it's noteworthy that these verses, including verse 16, were not originally part of the Bible. Mark's captivating writing style, evident in the suspenseful ending, led some scribes to add verses 9-20. The King James Version includes these additions, lacking access to older manuscripts. Despite this, modern translations often include a footnote acknowledging the absence in the earliest manuscripts.

Considering the hypothetical scenario of accepting these verses as Scripture, it's essential to note that Jesus, according to Mark 16:16, condemns those who lack belief, not those who remain unbaptized. Therefore, this verse doesn't advocate the idea of regeneration through baptism and lacks credibility.

Example 2

“Jesus answered and said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus *said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? He cannot enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born, can he?” Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not be amazed that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’” ‭‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭3‬-‭7‬ ‭[NASB1995‬‬]

Understanding these verses requires considering their full context. Nicodemus' inquiry about being born again as an old person prompts Jesus to discuss childbirth. Jesus's mention of being born of water refers to the physical birth process inside the mother, not water baptism. The subsequent contrast between flesh and spirit underscores that salvation is not attained through baptism.

Example 3

”Peter said to them, “Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.“ ‭‭Acts‬ ‭2‬:‭38‬ [‭NASB1995‬‬]
Take note that it doesn't instruct to "repent of your sins!" Instead, it emphasizes repentance, signifying a change of mind. In this context, the shift is specifically towards Christ, urging one to become a believer. The directive to "be baptized for the forgiveness of your sins" doesn't imply securing salvation through baptism; rather, it indicates being baptized because of your salvation. It's like getting medicine for a headache – not to get the headache, but because you already have one. However, it's crucial to recognize that water baptism doesn't absolve you of your sins.

Additionally, grasping the context of this verse is crucial for understanding that regeneration precedes baptism. In verse 4, it states, “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit was giving them utterance.” This occurred before the instruction on baptism, and receiving the Holy Spirit is inseparable from receiving salvation—it happens at the moment of regeneration. Therefore, understanding the context of their salvation and interpreting the word 'for' in this context is vital.

Example 4

“Corresponding to that, baptism now saves you—not the removal of dirt from the flesh, but an appeal to God for a good conscience—through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,” 1 Peter 3:21 [NASB1995]

When the Bible talks about "baptism," it could mean different things like spiritual baptism, water baptism, or just being immersed in something. Fortunately, there is no need for speculation regarding Peter's intended meaning in this verse, as he explicitly clarifies it with the phrase "not the removal of dirt from the flesh, but an appeal to God for a good conscience." In this verse, Peter helps us understand he's not talking about washing dirt off our bodies with water. Instead, he says it's about making a sincere request to God for a clear conscience.

Peter connects baptism with salvation, but not the physical act of getting wet. Immersing in water only cleans the body, but what Peter means is that baptism symbolizes something deeper—the appeal to God for a clean conscience, made possible through Jesus Christ's resurrection. In simpler terms, Peter is saying that it's not getting wet that saves us; it's the heartfelt request to God for a clean conscience, represented by baptism, that matters. So, before being baptized, we should first believe in and turn to God, and then we get baptized to show we identify with Christ publicly.