Essential Things to Know Before Getting Baptized

Before entering into the ordinance of baptism, it is essential to understand that you are making a solemn covenant with God to surrender your undivided affections to Him and to live a life of active service for the salvation of others6MR 155.2+2. This decision marks a turning point in your destiny where you choose Christ over the world3T 45.1+1.

Heart Preparation and Conversion

Prior to baptism, there must be a thorough conversion of the heart and a sincere practice of the truth6MR 155.2.

• Dying to Self: You must be "dead to sin" and the world, understanding that being buried in baptism while still alive to old habits is a serious matter17LtMs, Ms 87, 1902, par. 36+1.

• The New Birth: Baptism is the symbolic "birth of water," which must be accompanied by the "birth of the Spirit" to enter the kingdom of God John 3:4ARSH March 13, 1856, page 187.6.

• Repentance: Like the publicans and harlots who received John's baptism, a candidate must come with a heart broken in repentance and confession Matthew 21:31-32GCB June 2, 1909, par. 9+1.

• Searching the Word: Just as Ezra prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, you should diligently study the Scriptures to understand God's will Ezra 7:10SS 314.3+1.

Understanding the Vows

Your baptismal vows are a pledge made in the presence of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit1MR 118.2+1.

• Heavenly Support: By taking these vows, you unite with the three highest authorities in heaven, who pledge to provide the power necessary to make you victorious in every conflict with darkness6MR 167.2+2.

• Loyalty to God's Law: You are taking a solemn oath to live in faithful obedience to God's sacred law and to yield your life to His commandments Psalms 144:121MR 118.2+1.

• Renouncing the World: The pledge involves a resolute denial of self, the crucifying of lusts, and bringing even your thoughts into obedience to Christ3T 45.1+2.

The Commitment to Service

Baptism is not merely a personal ritual but a pledge to engage in the work of soul-savingEv 354.4+1.

• Working for Others: A truly converted soul will naturally reach out in faith to save others who are in darknessEv 354.4+1.

• Building the Church: Every member is pledged to use their talents to build up the church and guard the interests of their brethrenPM 117.5+2.

• Self-Denial: You are called to make earnest, self-denying efforts to promote the work of God even in the hardest parts of the harvest fieldEv 354.4+1.

Practical Christian Living

The life following baptism should reveal a distinct change in character and priorities6MR 155.2+1.

• Seeking Things Above: Having risen with Christ, your daily focus should be on "those things which are above" rather than worldly ambitions or pride Colossians 3:113MR 219.1+1.

• Physical and Spiritual Health: Habits of life, including eating and self-control, should be managed to maintain intellectual and spiritual strength for God's serviceHL 39.6+1.

• Example in the Home: Parents who have taken the vow are under obligation to place their children where they will receive religious encouragement and to lead them by example in public worshipCG 530.3+1.

• The Wedding Garment: One must ensure they possess the "wedding garment"—the righteousness of Christ expressed in character—to be prepared for the final judgment Matthew 22:11-1316MR 271.3+1.

It is a privilege to know that once you take this step, divine help is constantly at your command to help you walk in newness of life Romans 6:4RH February 18, 1904, par. 13+1.