For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:
The preceding text speaks of baptism, which, in my understanding of Scripture, only speaks of immersion in water. There is no biblical support for the doctrine of Holy Spirit baptism into an invisible body of Christ. Such a Spirit baptism could, at the very least, never represent a burial, being “planted together.”
Baptism is a literal, physical and deliberate action to which a believer in Christ must submit.
Therefore, I suggest we consider the “likeness of His resurrection” as the same.
It is literal, not merely spiritual
In other words, it is not theoretical but an action to which the believer must choose to submit.
It is physical
I mean by that; we perform it in our bodies. We mortify the deeds of the flesh. We put on the new man. It will show. People will recognize it in you.
It is deliberate
We are instructed in Romans 6:13 (KJV)
Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.
No wonder believers of centuries past were willing to die if necessary to be baptized and to teach, preach and practice a strict ordinance of baptism. It is not a theological concept but an act with real-time spiritual significance.
To my readers:
Thank you! It is a great joy to me to know you read the thoughts and lessons God has given me in His word. I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to leave comments.
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