Counsels on Church Life

Counsel #15 — Baptism

Picture: Counsel #15 — Baptism CCL 25.1

Getting baptized is a public declaration of your faith. It signifies that you believe Jesus died and rose again, and that this event changes everything for us. It's like saying goodbye to your old, sin-focused way of life, and embracing a brand-new way of living that follows Jesus. CCL 25.2

Through baptism, you acknowledge Jesus as your Leader and Savior, officially joining His family— the church! It's a symbolic washing away of your sins and a welcoming of the Holy Spirit into your life. Biblically, baptism involves being fully submerged in water. To be baptized, you should have a personal belief in Jesus and a genuine desire to turn away from sin. It's also important to be familiar with the Bible and its teachings before taking this step.^[32] CCL 25.3

“He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.” Mark 16:16 NKJV CCL 25.4

“Baptism is a most solemn renunciation of the world. Those who are baptized in the threefold name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit ... declare publicly that they have forsaken the service of Satan and have become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King.” Ellen White in Lift Him Up, p. 302 CCL 25.5

Reflect: Share your thoughts on the quote: “He who believes and is baptized will be saved...” (Mark 16:16). CCL 25.6