Baptism, A Sign Of The Cleansing That All Sinners Need

I. Gen 17:12,13 - Adults can only be baptised as professing believers.

The question addressed here is that proposed by the circumcision in Abraham's household of children and adults - why does it not follow that adults under a believing headship should likewise be baptised under the NT?

II. Baptism vows and administration.

III. Psalm 51 - Baptism as a sign of the cleansing that all sinners need.

The meaning and significance of baptism not being death, burial and resurrection, but union with Christ (by which we are buried and raised with him) and cleansing from sin. This union and cleansing being effected by the Holy Spirit initiating a sinners' regeneration, the action of pouring or sprinkling more accurately pictures the thing signified, as well as agreeing with the OT types and representations found in this psalm and throughout the Scriptures.

1. How David describes the cleansing he needs.
2. A sign is never enough.
3. Baptism is a sign that should stir believers to grateful obedience.