Learning from Examples

Acts 8
    There is much we can learn from studying examples that we find throughout the scriptures. One important aspect of study needs to be the examples of conversion found in the book of Acts. Last week we started discussing the Ethiopian eunuch and some import questions surrounding his conversion example. It is obvious from the inference that in order to properly teach Jesus the way it was taught in scripture, one must teach baptism (Acts 8:35-36). Inference also tells us that the eunuch’s baptism was an immersion (Acts 8:38 [immersion is also taught through direct command throughout the scriptures Col. 2:12 & Rom. 6:2-4]). One way we can learn from this example is by looking at what did NOT happen. As soon as the eunuch professed a faith in Jesus Christ, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God” (Acts 8:37) he was still not saved, he only went on rejoicing after he had been baptized. 
    We see the same situation with the Philippian jailor in Acts 16. Once he asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” He was told to “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” (Acts 16:30-31). His action following tells the story. The text tells us that very hour he went and washed their wounds, or repented, and was baptized, he and all this household (Acts 16:33). It says in verse 34 that he rejoiced greatly having believed in God. He and his household were not considered to have “believed” (notice the past tense) in God until AFTER the repentance and baptism. It is evident that action is a part of belief (James 2:26). I love you all!
In His service,
Steven Hugley