When discussing the subject of salvation, some quote certain passages to the exclusion of others that also are relevant to the subject. For example, some will quote “…Whoever believes in Him will receive remission of sins” (Acts 10:43 NKJV) and then make the claim this passage teaches that all one has to do to receive remission of sins is to believe. However, such assertions ignore other relevant passages, such as Acts 11:18, which teaches the essentiality of repentance. In addition, Acts 2:38 states, “…Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…” The latter of these verses teaches that both repentance and baptism are essential in order to receive the remission of sins. Furthermore, Romans 10:9-10 teaches that both belief and confession of Christ are essential to salvation.
What all this means, and what should be obvious to all, is that one must not ignore any relevant biblical passage on a given subject to have the truth on that subject. Even the devil quoted Scripture (Matthew 5:4-6). However, the devil will quote some Scripture to the exclusion of other Scriptures (Matthew 4:7). The New Testament teaches belief, repentance, confession and baptism for the remission of sins. Which Scriptures do you ignore?
