John 3:16 is one of the most well-known verses in the Bible. This passage has been used by many to downplay the importance of baptism. Is belief all that is needed to be saved? The New Testament is filled with passages that proclaim the essentiality of baptism (cf. Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; 1 Pet. 3:21), but what does John 3 really teach?
In verse 5, Jesus explains what it means to be born again. He says, “…unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” Jesus is talking about baptism. In this passage, Jesus spoke to a Pharisee, named Nicodemus. A Pharisee would have understood John’s baptism. Some Pharisees even came to John to be baptized (Matt. 3:7). So, when Jesus told him to be born of water, he would have known that He was speaking of baptism.
The chapter continues this theme, recording John the Baptist’s explanation of Jesus’ baptism (v. 27-36). In his conclusion, the NKJV translates verse 36, “…he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.” This may lead someone to say that he is emphasizing belief. However, the ESV, NASB and ASV more precisely translate it, “he who does not obey.” Throughout the Bible, nothing is emphasized more than faith-based obedience. It is how we express our love to Him (John 14:15). If we do not obey God, we will not enter His kingdom and baptism is an act of obedience.