Question: Dear Greg,

If I may ask a follow-up question on baptism being required for salvation. You said it’s not required for one’s salvation, yet it is commanded after we are saved as an outward statement of our commitment. My question is: What if one does not do it (be baptized) are they still "ok" with God? My mother doesn’t remember if she was baptized or not and she’s been asking me if its necessary. I told her I don’t think it is, but I’m not sure. She’s not able to get out and she doesn’t want people coming to the house to baptize her. That’s the reason for my question.

Thanks, Greg.

Joe

Answer: Dear Joe,

The most important thing for your mother is her personal relationship with our Lord and Savior. Salvation is granted by God, because of and through his grace, not through any ceremony presided over by humans. The thief on the cross was in no position to be baptized, yet our Lord assured him that he would be with Jesus in paradise. But, the thief on the cross was certainly not the normal situation in which Christians find themselves – hence, the command to be baptized.

Your mother might be assured and more confident if she were to request a visit from a clergyman that she trusts – or perhaps knows. But this may not be possible or even advisable – I do not know the specifics of your situation. I do hope that this answer will help you and your mother, and that God will bless you both as you seek him.

In Christ,

Greg Albert