When approaching an intersection, it’s essential to understand what the traffic lights mean. These rules are straightforward: green means go, yellow means slow down, and red means stop. 

Traffic signals are there to keep us safe on the road, and ignoring them can lead to serious consequences. You might break the law and face fines, but worse things can happen, as not paying attention can result in someone getting seriously injured, or even killed! 

Though such rules are easy to understand, the impact of following or disregarding them is profound.

Now, apply this illustration to some straightforward statements in the Bible. Although everyone needs salvation, and we all need the grace of God through Jesus Christ, people have different interpretations of how to access Jesus’ saving blood. 

But what does the Bible say about the forgiveness of sins and how we obtain it? Consider some of these most clearest of statements, and reflect on what you think they mean.

On the day of Pentecost: Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:38, New King James Version)

What were the people told to do to obtain the remission of sins? “Repent, and let every one of you ___ __________ in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins…”

Ananias told Paul: And now, why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord. (Acts 22:16)

What was Paul told to do for the washing away of his sins? “Arise, and __ __________, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”

The Apostle Peter wrote these words: There is also an antitype which now saves us—baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers having been made subject to Him. (1 Peter 3:21-22)

What does Peter say that now saves us? “There is also an antitype which now saves us – __________ (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God)”

The Bible does not stutter. Just as traffic lights provide clear guidance for safe driving, Scripture offers clear instructions regarding baptism and the forgiveness of sins. And just as ignoring traffic signals can lead to serious consequences, neglecting biblical teaching on baptism can affect one’s salvation; whereas adhering to it is crucial for receiving God’s grace and achieving true forgiveness (See John 3:3-5; Luke 6:46).

Please reflect on the importance of baptism and forgiveness in your life, and if you have not been baptized “for the remission of sins,” consider taking steps to explore this important milestone in your spiritual journey. Read. Study. Obey God’s Word.