Why did Paul say he was not sent to baptize people but to preach gospel? Doesn’t preaching the gospel include baptism, too?
1 Corinthians 1:17
ESV - 17 For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with words of eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.
Clarify
•
Share
•
Report
•
Asked September 10 2021
•
Anonymous
Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.
Tim Maas
I would say that Paul was referring to the fact that, even though he (by his own account) had indeed baptized some individuals, his PRIMARY calling from God was not to baptize, but to preach. I would say that this was in view of his extensive prior religious training as a Pharisee, and was further reinforced by the three years of spiritual instruction that Paul received directly from the Holy Spirit in the desert after his conversion, before going to Jerusalem and meeting with the apostles (Galatians 1:15-18). The glorified Christ Himself confirmed this in His calling of Ananias of Damascus to go and baptize Paul (after Paul's encounter with Christ on the Damascus road) when He said to Ananias, "This man is My chosen instrument to proclaim My name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel." Even to this day, any Christian can perform a baptism, but Paul's specific qualifications prepared him for a preaching ministry for which he was particularly and uniquely qualified.
James Kraft
The second we trust Jesus as the only way of salvation apart from any works, Romans 4:5, we are baptized by the Holy Spirit. Acts 11:16 Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how He said, John indeed baptized with water, but ye shall be baptized by the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 1:13-14 Our guarantee of eternal life Ephesians 4:30 And grieve not the Holy Spirit in whom ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. The rapture of the church. John 3:18. First John 5:13 John 10:28-29. Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, physical death, but the GIFT of God is eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Add your Answer
All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.
A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.
- Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
- Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
- Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
- Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
- For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible