Hopeful,

I suggest since your friend is so fond of Mark 16:16 that the entire verse and last phrase be presented to him as follows.

"but he who has disbelieved shall be condemned."

Have him note that the verse does not say, "He that is NOT BAPTIZED and disbelieves shall be condemned". The force of the verse is about faith alone.

I would follow up with the true argument that the Scripture does not contradict itself. I would then present him with this verse from Ephesians 2:8,9

"For by Grace you have been saved through faith; and not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast."

I hope this is helpful.

Denny

Roms 3:22-24

Last edited by Adopted; Mon Jun 13, 2005 6:33 PM.
Denny

Simon Peter answered Him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life." [John 6:68]