In a booklet distributed by the Church in the early twentieth century, we read the following during a discussion concerning water baptism:
"And do you really believe that baptism brings
remission of sin?" queried the lawyer.
"Certainly; provided, however, honest faith and
sincere repentance go before it, and the ordinance is administered in the
proper way by one endowed with divine authority; otherwise I believe it is of
no avail whatever."
. . .
Let us examine the principle. Let us see if the idea of
water baptism appears reasonable. The Lord has wisely and kindly selected this
form of ordinance for the remission of sins. It was with this object in view
that John advocated the principle. Peter promised it on the day of Pentecost.
Saul also received aid to arise and have his sins washed away. And so it was
taught by different disciples as a means whereby God would remit sins." (Ben
E. Rich, A Friendly Discussion [Salt Lake City: Deseret News Press,
n.d.], 17, 18)
This was (correctly)
interpreted by critics as teaching baptismal regeneration. In a booklet written
in response to A Friendly Discussion from 1928, we read the following:
NO
SALVATION IN WATER BAPTISM
I would like to say a little more concerning water
baptism. . . . in my opinion, it is far greater mockery for those who have
understanding and know they are sinners and can repent, and believe to think
that through water baptism their sinful heart is changed, and their sins are
forgiven; that through water baptism they are regenerated, or born again. . . .
There will be an awful awakening in eternity to those who believe that water
baptism, in any form, or by any authority can regenerate the soul. It is a receiving
lie from Satan, deluding multitudes into the belief that they are safe for
heaven, when, as a fact, they are on the road to meet that wrath of God against
the unrepentant sinner which is everywhere disclosed in God's Holy Word. (A
Refutation to "A Friendly Discussion" (A Booklet Distributed by the
Mormon Church") [Los Angeles: International Truth Distributors, 1928],
32, 33)
Further Reading:
Correcting
Elder Kevin W. Pearson: Baptism Does Cleanse Us from Our Sins
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