2 places in scripture seem to indicate that baptism is NOT a requirement for salvation. Jesus said to the theif on the cross "today you shall be with me in paradise" , then in 1 Cor 1:17 For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not in cleverness of speech, so that the cross of Christ would not be made void.
It doesn't fit that if baptism IS required for salvation, that Paul would then say: 'Christ didn't put me on a mission to baptize... my mission is to preach the Gospel-- that is the power of God unto Salvation...' ( my transliteration of that verse).
Sometimes I see baptism as less a 'ritual' and more of an internal action. The phrase 'buried with him in baptism' ( while some would use this as evidence of 'dunking, not sprinkling') speaks to me of my identification with his death , burial and ressurection.
I was raised Reformed, and then while in the service, ( Ft Bragg no less..), I started challenging my views. I went on a long whirlwind tour of different denominations ( I even looked at the RCC, I loved their liturgy-- but realized I had sharp differences with them, and couldn't join with a clear conscience). My views on the RCC hierarchy and the average RCC laity is also different. SO I am a little more accepting of someone who says they're RC and don't automatically assume they are hell-bound. I have met RC's whose views on Justification were markedly different from the Churches position... which always boggled my mind.
Baptism is intrinsically linked to salvation, but it is not a pre-requisite, or necessity. Either God saves alone, or God doesn't save at all. Outward baptism is an obediant response to his command. ( I leave that statement so that both Creado's and Paedo's can accept that statement). I further believe Baptism is a sacrament..
I have been 'Craedo-baptized'. My wife and I were burdened to join a church ( One of the many times while stationed at Fayette-Nam, NC). The church was non-denom with a background of Presby and baptists in it. The church was strong, and big on teaching, discipling, fellowship, and over-all missions. They covenanted to dedicate close to a 1/3 of all they recieved in monies to missionaries. I believe the Lord honored that, and they now sponsor over 20-30 missionaries.
But back to the story. I approcahed the pastor and told him that I would like to join, but that I still believed in the merits of Paedo-baptism. IN order to join, I had to undergo a 'believers baptism' for them.. and after praying about it, I felt the Lords peace in my decision.
Yet both of my children have been baptized by their Grandfather. I have stood before the congregation, and professed my faith in Christ, and claimed the promises of Christ for my children, until such time as they are old enough to claim them for themselves.
Sorry, I feel like I am rambling here. I probably am.
Catholic Soldier. If you are interested, I can put you in touch with several scholarly bible teachers in your area who would love to discuss Protestanism vs Catholicism. Many came from that background--
In fact, there is a Servicemans christian Center near you where the Teacher ( Rev Morrison) would love to 'apologize' the Christian faith. Its located right next to Carolina Bible College. Now he is not reformed.. he is dispensational, but I still love him anyway. Also there is a former SF/Ranger Chap (Ret) who worked for the Cadence Intl Hosp House-- but now is a pastor at a local church.. his last name is Boyle.. He is a hoot to hang out with and talk scripture. He also will challenge you immensely.
While I reject a lot of what your denomination believes theologically, I offer my right hand of friendship to you as a fellow airborne idiot ( unless you're a leg...(rofl))
