In a feeble attempt to dismiss the necessity of baptism in order to obtain remission of sins, some have argued that baptism is a work and that the Bible says we are not saved by works. Space prevents a full discussion of works, but the summary of Scriptural teaching is that man cannot be saved by his own boastful works of merit (Eph. 2:8-10; Tit. 3:5), however, “a man is justified by works” of obedience when he does the will of the Father in heaven (Jas. 2:14-26; Matt. 7:21).
Immersion in water is clearly essential to one’s salvation from sins, as taught in numerous passages, such as Mark 16:16; John 3:5; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Romans 6:3-4; Galatians 3:26-27; 1 Peter 3:21, etc. Now, here’s a question to consider: Who is doing the “work” of saving when someone is baptized? Read Colossians 2:12 – “Buried with Him in baptism, in which you also were raised with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead.”
Is baptism essential? Is it an act of obedience? Is God the one doing the work? YES!