The Delivered -- By: Richard V. Clearwaters

Journal: Central Bible Quarterly
Volume: CENQ 04:3 (Fall 1961)
Article: The Delivered
Author: Richard V. Clearwaters


The Delivered

Richard V. Clearwaters

Pastor, Fourth Baptist Church Minneapolis, Minnesota

The Apostle Paul in I Corinthians 11:23 states, “For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you”; and again, I Corinthians 15:3, “For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures.” The Word of God is very clear on two things, namely, “The faith which was once for all delivered unto the saints” (Jude 3, ARV). There is no progress here! The second thing the scriptures make very plain is “That form of teaching [doctrine] whereunto ye were delivered” (Romans 6:17, ARV). Christianity is the only religious faith that demands the total surrender of the whole self (Romans 12:1). A careful study of scripture references makes most plain that immersion baptism is the only New Testament mould of doctrine connected with and symbolizing the Gospel. The Apostle Paul’s attitude was that of a Western Union boy who faithfully delivers his message to the people.

Considered historically, immersion baptism records death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Considered symbolically, immersion baptism represents the believer’s death to sin, an old life buried, and the resurrection of a new life.

Considered didactically, immersion baptism is the only mould, pattern, type, or symbol from which can be taught the great New Testament doctrines of the Gospel without distorting them.

In conclusion may we ever hold firmly to this changeless faith and to this changeless form that have provided a pure church for Christ throughout the centuries.

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