Unless an individual who is in a capable, accountable state comes in contact with God’s Word in a form which they can understand; salvation cannot occur. Hearing is the starting point from which the whole plan of salvation proceeds. Thus is the sending forth preachers of the word made necessary. (Romans 10:14,15)
Without its acceptance, even the Word of God is without power to save. Just as surely as Satan flees from the single, simple word “no”; so too, will God not force an obedient faith upon anyone. Once again, we find the necessity of the word being preached. (Romans 10:17)
Repentance is the proof of the change of heart which is a vital element in the process of salvation. What you and I think or say about our commitment to Christ may have their places, but; only godly sorrow brings about the actual, active repentance necessary for salvation. (2 Corinthians 7:10) Our actions reveal our hearts.
Anyone not willing to admit and share with others his belief in what he has heard about God, His Word, and His church; has neither truly heard nor believed; and, is in fact; incapable of progressing any further towards becoming a child of God. Without confession we will never be partakers of any of the heavenly benefits in Christ. (Matthew 11:32,33)
For whatever motivation they may have to try to deny its place in the scheme of redemption; those who would argue against baptism and its proper form and administration, can only find themselves with but a single choice to make: to follow scripture or not. Thus, all must accept that salvation is not outside of what is found in God’s Word. (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15,16)
"And why call ye me
Lord, Lord,
and do not the things
which I say?"
{ Luke 6:46 }
<KJV>