What does 1 Corinthians 1:16 teach about the role of baptism in faith? The Verse in Focus 1 Corinthians 1:16 — “Yes, I also baptized the household of Stephanas; beyond that I do not remember baptizing anyone else.” Immediate Context • v. 14 — Paul thanks God he did not baptize many in Corinth. • v. 17 — “For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel…” Together, these verses frame baptism as important yet clearly secondary to proclaiming the gospel. Key Observations from 1 Corinthians 1:16 • Baptism is not the saving act; the gospel is. • Paul’s forgetfulness about whom he baptized highlights that salvation rests on Christ, not on the baptizer or the rite itself. • The mention of an entire household hints at baptism’s communal witness without suggesting automatic salvation for each member; belief still precedes baptism (Acts 16:31–34). • By separating his primary mission (preaching) from baptism, Paul guards against any notion that baptism adds to Christ’s finished work. How the Rest of Scripture Frames Baptism • Commanded act of obedience: Matthew 28:19; Acts 2:38. • Public identification with Christ’s death and resurrection: Romans 6:3–4. • Coupled with faith, never a substitute for it: Mark 16:16; Galatians 3:26–27. • Salvation is by grace through faith alone: Ephesians 2:8–9; Titus 3:5. Putting It All Together Baptism • follows saving faith as the first step of discipleship, • testifies openly to the work God has already done, • unites believers into Christ’s visible body, • must never eclipse the centrality of the cross and the preaching of the gospel. Application Snapshot • Rest your confidence in Christ, not in any outward ordinance. • If you believe, obey Christ’s command and be baptized—joyfully, promptly, publicly. • In ministry and personal witness, keep the gospel message front-and-center, letting baptism serve as its God-given seal, not its substitute. |
    |