KNOWLEDGE AND FAITH NEEDED

You have already begun to take the first step. How? By taking in knowledge of Jehovah God and Jesus Christ, perhaps by means of a systematic study of the Bible. (John 17:3) But there is more to learn. Christians want to be "filled with the accurate knowledge of [God's ] will." (Colossians 1:9)  Attending the congregation meetings of Jehovah's Witnesses is a big help  in this regard.  It is important to attend such meetings. (Hebrews 10:24, 25) Regular meeting attendance will help you increase your knowledge of God. 

Of course, you do not need to know everything in the Bible in order to qualify for baptism.  The Ethiopian court official had some knowledge, but he needed help to understand certain parts of the Scriptures. (Acts 8:30, 31)  Likewise, you still have much to learn.  In fact, you will never stop learning about God. (Ecclesiastes 3:11)  Before you can be baptized, however, you need to know and accept at least the basic Bible teachings. (Hebrews 5:12)  Such teachings include the truth about the condition of the dead and importance of God's name and his Kingdom.

Knowledge alone is not enough, though, for "without faith it is impossible to please [God] well." (Hebrews 11:6)  The Bible tells us that when some people in the ancient city of Corinth heard the Christian message, they  "began to believe and be baptized." (Acts 18:8)  In a similar way, a study of the Bible should fill you with faith that it is the inspired Word of God.  Bible study should help you to have faith in God's promises and in the saving power of Jesus' sacrifice. -Joshua 23:14; Acts 4:12; 2 Timothy 3:16, 17. 

Next time: SHARING BIBLE TRUTH WITH OTHERS

From the Book: What Does the Bible Really Teach? 2005 and 2006