When you’re submerged in water, the water might cleanse the dirt from your body, but the water won’t cleanse your soul from sin.  Only the blood of Jesus does that.  Jesus said that his blood was “poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins” (Matthew 26:28).  Christians “have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses” (Ephesians 1:7).  With that in mind, remember that Paul was told that by being baptized he would “wash away your sins” (Acts 22:16).  Thus, it is in baptism that one spiritually comes into contact with the blood of Christ which cleanses us from our sins.  We are commanded to be baptized in water (Acts 10:47-48; cf. John 3:5), but the water itself doesn’t spiritually cleanse us.  Rather, it brings us into contact with the blood of Christ which does cleanse us.… Read More Baptism and a Good Conscience