As we study the scriptures we must seek God’s approval by following His guidelines (II Tim 2:15). We must also remember the need to apply the rules of grammar in our study of the scriptures. This is of extreme importance as we examine Acts 2:38, "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…" Some contend that while repentance is important for the remission of sins baptism is not. One of the key words in this text is "and" (A coordinating conjunction representing two things of equal value.) If I were to tell to that I would give you a hundred dollars if you washed and waxed my car. You would understand immediately that if you wanted to receive the money from me that you must do both—wash and wax it. Failure to do both would me no money for you. The same is true spiritually, if a person wants to have his sins remitted he must repent and be baptized. Failure to do both would mean that he would be unable to have his sins remitted.

Man says if only you repent you will receive the remission of sins. God says in Acts 2:38 that you must repent and be baptized to receive the remission of sins. The question left for you to answer is, Whom do you seek to please--God or man?

Mike Gurganus
PO Box. 916
Henderson, NC 27536