Confusion

Tim West, pastor of Hornsby Baptist Church, Hornsby, TN, suggests an interpretation of 1 Peter 3:19-20 that “presents some extreme difficulties” according to the LifeWay Adult Commentary (p. 77). Mark Rathel, professor of theology at The Baptist College of Florida, carefully dissects the passage to conclude that Jesus did not descend into Hell.

1 Peter 3:21 can also be misunderstood to imply that baptism is a sacrament. However, baptism is representative, or symbolic and is a pledge of obedience following repentance and confession of Jesus as Lord. Salvation is by the grace of God through faith, a gift from above.

How do you plan to present these difficult to interpret passages in your class so as to avoid confusion?