Is the good thief proof that baptism isn't necessary?
The short answer
No. It isn't clear baptism had yet been mandated when Jesus met the thief, and we don't know the thief wasn't already baptized. In any case, he clearly converted on the cross and would surely have desired baptism had he known of its necessity — and the desire for baptism brings about its fruits.
Was baptism already required?
It isn't clear Jesus had mandated baptism before meeting the thief (Luke 23:39-43). Even if he had, we don't know for certain that the thief was not baptized.
Baptism of desire
The thief clearly converted during his crucifixion, and it seems evident he would have desired baptism had he known it was necessary. That would have been sufficient: the Church recognizes that in such a case the desire for baptism brings about its fruits (CCC 1258).
Continue exploring
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