THE MEANING OF YOUR BAPTISM

Jesus said that his disciples would be baptized "in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy spirit."  (Matthew 28:19) This means that  a baptism candidate recognizes the authority of Jehovah God  and of Jesus Christ. (Psalm 83:18; Matthew 28:18)  He also recognizes the function and activity of God's holy spirit, or active force. -Galatians 5:22, 23; 2 Peter 1:21. 

However baptism is not a mere bath, it is a symbol of something very important.  Going beneath  the water symbolizes  that you have died to your former life course.  Being raised up out of the water indicates  that you are now alive to do the will of God. Remember, too, that you have made a dedication   to Jehovah God himself, not to a word,  a cause, other humans, or an organization.  Your dedication and baptism are the beginning of a very close friendship with God-an intimate relationship with him. -Psalm 25:14. 

Baptism does not guarantee salvation. The apostle Paul wrote: "Keep working out your own salvation with fear and trembling." (Philippians 2:12) Baptism  is only a beginning.  The question is, How can you remain in God's love? Our final chapter will provide the answer. 

Next time: REMAIN IN GOD'S LOVE,  Chapter Nineteen

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