Necessity of Baptism

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| > Okay...back to my question...I will rephrase the question. Do you think
| these people can be saved without being baptized in water in the name of
Jesus?

I don't remember who originiated this question, so I'm not altogether sure
who "these people" are.  In my reading of the scripture I've come to this
conclusion, and it is based largely on James 4:17:

"Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is
sin."

I think it all boils down to obedience.
If someone has heard and understands the salvation message, I believe they
will be held accountable for disobedience.

1)  Jesus commanded the disciples to baptize. (Matt. 28)
2)  Jesus further states that unless one is baptized, he will not be saved
(John 3,
     Mark 16).
3)  Jesus said if we love him, we will keep his commandments (John 14)
4)  Jesus gives Peter the keys to the kingdom (Matt 16).
5)  Peter preached these keys to the Jews (Acts 2), Samaritans (Acts 8),
and      Gentiles (Acts 10).  (One of which was indeed water baptism in
Jesus'           name.)

My point?  The "keys" have not been changed--and to my knowledge, neither
have the "locks".

Conclusion:  Yes, water baptism is a necessary *part* of the salvation
process.  This process begins with "hearing" the message (Romans 10:13-14).
 If they have been preached another message (gospel), I pity the person who
delivered it to them (Gal. 1:6-9).  I make sure I "preach" exactly what I
see in the Bible, and that includes water baptism in Jesus' name, no "ifs",
"ands" or "buts".  :-)


Anneliese