Glenn wrote: > Wrong. The Bible does not teach a person > is going to hell (or whatever word Mormons > use) if they are not baptized. In fact, the thief > on the cross, was with Jesus after he died.
DAVEH: > Sorry to interrupt, Glenn.....but in the past 3 years I explained > this twice on TT. The thief was with Jesus on the day he died, > but they were in paradise....not heaven, which Jesus returned > to on the 3rd day. I agree with you that Paradise was not heaven, but it also was not the place that thieves went to. In other words, the thief found mercy and forgiveness from Jesus with this statement. Do you agree? I will say that I have always found it curious that people automatically assume that the thief was never baptized. It is entirely possible that the thief was baptized prior to his crucifixion. I know many criminals in jail that have been baptized. Nevertheless, I do agree with Glenn that baptism is not a necessary ritual for escaping the judgment of eternal damnation. It is one of many things that can help a person apply saving faith in Jesus Christ, and thereby be forgiven. I think it was Augustine who said that the thief's baptism was his crucifixion. He also has presented some interesting arguments for why baptism administered by sects outside of Catholicism should be considered valid. If you have access to the writings of the Church Fathers, you should read some of it. Peace be with you. David Miller. ---------- "Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer every man." (Colossians 4:6) http://www.InnGlory.org If you do not want to receive posts from this list, send an email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] and you will be unsubscribed. If you have a friend who wants to join, tell him to send an e-mail to [EMAIL PROTECTED] and he will be subscribed.
