The Baptism

John Boy's comments at the end of the movie indicated "his father was never baptized but was recognized to be the most Godly man in Walton's Mountain". While it is true that one does not have to be baptized to receive salvation, baptism does follow the example set by Christ himself and in the Great Commission we are told to "go forth to all nations to make disciples and baptize ....". While preaching fire and brimstone is not the approach we appreciate today warning people about the cost of sin (eternal damnation) is very serious. How did Christ react when encountering wrongful acts (money changers) in the Temple? We (including father Walton) all want teachers who make us feel good (laugh, entertain, etc.) but let one convict us by teaching the Word and we are "not comfortable". The episode portrays father Walton as a "good man" and therefore "Godly" but scripture is clear that being a good man will not get anyone into heaven. If father Walton was a man of faith he should have set the example of following Christ's example in all things to include baptism? He had the opportunity to follow Christ's example to his family and community and to set the example but he failed to do so because of his feelings. It is tough to put our feelings aside and do what is right. Christ struggled with His feelings in the Garden of Gethsemane but out of love for us He denied His feelings and paid the price for our sin.