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“If anyone wants to be my follower, let him renounce himself and take up his torture stake day after day and follow me constantly” (LUK. 9:23).
1, 2. How does someone's life improve when they are baptized?
When someone is baptized they become part of Jehovah's family, providing a deep sense of belonging and spiritual connection. As the Psalmist David mentions in Psalm chapter 65 verse 4, those who are chosen and brought to Jehovah to live in his courts experience incomparable happiness.
In James chapter 4 verse 8, we see that this special relationship with Jehovah is not granted lightly, it requires a sincere commitment and a demonstration of willingness to be a friend of God. By dedicating themselves to Jehovah and receiving baptism, this spiritual connection is strengthened, and Jehovah promises to shower them with abundant blessings, assuring them that they will lack nothing.
3. What serious responsibility do all dedicated and baptized Christians have? (Ecclesiastes 5:4, 5).
As dedicated and baptized Christians we have the responsibility to live in accordance with the principles and teachings of Jesus Christ. This means staying true to our dedication even in the midst of the trials and temptations we face in life.
In the text we have just read, we are reminded of the seriousness of our previous vows and the importance of fulfilling them. Furthermore, we must follow the example of Jesus and obey his commandments as urged in Matthew chapter 28 verses 19 and 20. This commitment to our faith will guide us in our walk as Christians and help us remain firm in our dedication to Jehovah.
“CONSTANTLY FOLLOW” JESUS DESPITE PROBLEMS AND TEMPTATIONS
4. In what sense do we disciples of Jesus carry a “torture stake”? (Luke 9:23).
When Jesus speaks of carrying a Torture Stake in Luke chapter 9 verse 23 he is metaphorically referring to the difficulties and challenges that his disciples will face in their daily lives.
This passage suggests to us that the life of a Christian is not destined solely for suffering, but rather recognizes the reality that following Jesus involves facing trials and sacrifices. Therefore, just like Jesus, his disciples must also be willing to face adversity while following the path of Christ in this teaching. He reminds us that the Christian Life involves giving up certain worldly desires and comforts to follow Jesus in a committed way.
5. What blessings did Jesus promise to those who make sacrifices for the Kingdom?
Jesus' words in Mark chapter 10 verses 29 and 30 offer us a powerful promise of blessing for those who make sacrifices for the Kingdom. If we have left home, family, or possessions to follow Jesus and proclaim the good news, Jesus promises us an abundant reward, both in this life and in the next.
Although we may face persecutions and challenges, these Blessings will far outweigh any sacrifice we have made. Jehovah deeply values our dedication and does not overlook our efforts, we can trust that he will reward us generously, both in this time and in eternal life.
6. Why will you have to continue fighting against “the lust of the flesh” after you are baptized?
In first John chapter 2 verse 16, we see that after being baptized the struggle against the desires of the flesh persists due to our imperfect nature. Even though we have taken this step of dedication we are still vulnerable to temptations and sinful desires as Paul described in Romans chapter 7 verses 22 and 23.
We often find ourselves in internal conflict between what we know to be right and what our fallen nature holds. Inclining us to make this struggle can be frustrating, but remembering our vow of dedication to Jehovah will give us the strength necessary to resist temptation. Although it may seem difficult to commit to Jehovah in our dedication, it makes us face temptations with greater resolve and gives us comfort and hope in the midst of challenges.
7. How will being dedicated to Jehovah help us be loyal?
Being dedicated to Jehovah helps us be loyal because it means giving up our own desires and ambitions in favor of what pleases God.
This dedication provides us with clear guidance in times of trial, as we commit to being faithful to Jehovah no matter the circumstances by giving up other options and committing ourselves completely to him our loyalty is strengthened, as Job demonstrated by affirming his integrity in amidst their difficulties.
8. Why will meditating on our vow of dedication help us resist temptations?
Meditating on our vow of dedication gives us the necessary strength to resist temptations. By remembering that we have committed ourselves to doing Jehovah's will, we reaffirm our determination to follow his ways. This reminder helps us stay firm and prevent bad desires from taking root in our hearts.
In Proverbs chapter 4 verses 14 and 15, we see how by choosing from the beginning the path of righteousness we completely separate ourselves from the paths of evil as biblical wisdom advises us.
9. Why will meditating on our vow of dedication help us keep spiritual activities first?
Meditating on our vow of dedication helps us keep spiritual activities first. If we are faced with the offer of a job that will prevent us from attending all the meetings, we will have already made the decision to reject it, long before we are asked. present the opportunity.
This firmness prevents us from falling into the trap of accepting commitments that distance us from our duty to Jehovah. Following the example of Jesus who was determined to please his heavenly father, we will reject any offer that contradicts our dedication to God.
10. How will Jehovah help us to consistently follow Jesus after we are baptized?
After we are baptized, Jehovah will help us to constantly follow Jesus. When we face problems and temptations, these situations give us the opportunity to demonstrate our determination to follow his example. We trust that Jehovah will assist us, since the Bible, in First Corinthians chapter 10, verse 13, assures us that he is faithful and will give us strength. to resist temptations by ensuring that we do not face trials beyond our capabilities.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO CONSTANTLY FOLLOW JESUS
11. What is one of the best ways to consistently follow Jesus? (See also images).
One of the best ways to consistently follow Jesus after being baptized is to develop and maintain the habit of doing things that bring us closer to Jehovah.
In Luke chapter 6 verse 12, Jesus himself set the example for us by serving Jehovah wholeheartedly and staying close to him through prayer.
The Bible in Philippians chapter 3 verse 16 encourages us to continue advancing along the same path of righteousness, no matter how much we have progressed. Sometimes we hear inspiring experiences of brothers who decided to do more for Jehovah if our circumstances allow us to follow those steps forward, but If at the moment we cannot, we should not feel less valuable, Jehovah values the effort we give based on our circumstances and abilities and that is what really matters to constantly follow Jesus after baptism.
ILLUSTRATION
A young woman who has just been baptized in a pool looks very happy. Featured images: 1. she Goes out to preach. 2. Attend the School for Kingdom Evangelizers. 3. Install electrical wiring in a construction project. After you are baptized, set a goal to do things that will bring you closer to Jehovah. (See paragraph 11).
12, 13. What can you do if you see that you are starting to lose enthusiasm? (1 Corinthians 9:16, 17; see also the box “What to do to keep running the race.”)
In the text we have just read, we see the example that Paul gives us. Therefore, in times like these, it is useful to reflect on the example of him, who despite the challenges and ups and downs in motivation of him was determined to fulfill his ministry we must commit to doing what is right, even when we do not feel the need. desire to do it.
Maintaining a safe program of spiritual activities will help us stay constant and overcome those moments of discouragement.
Furthermore, as we see in first Thessalonians chapter 5 verse 11, upon seeing our perseverance our brothers in the congregation will also feel encouraged. Let us remember that just as an athlete stays in shape to continue running, we must stay strong spiritually to continue serving Jehovah after baptism.
ILLUSTRATION
Series of images: 1. An athlete eating a very nutritious dish; In a circle you see a brother reading the Bible. 2. The athlete stretching; In a circle the brother is seen commenting at a meeting. 3. The athlete running; In a circle you see the brother preaching in the cart. An athlete must stay in shape to continue running. Similarly, a Christian must remain spiritually strong to continue serving Jehovah after baptism.
“KEEP EXAMINING YOURSELF”
14. What is good for you to examine from time to time, and why? (2 Corinthians 13:5).
According to this text, it is important that after baptism, we examine our lives and habits from time to time to evaluate our relationship with Jehovah.
This self-examination helps us identify areas in which we can improve and strengthen our faith. For example, we can reflect on whether we are fulfilling spiritual activities, such as daily prayer, Bible study, meeting attendance, and preaching. Also ask ourselves questions such as: Am I prepared to explain the basic teachings of the Bible? How can I enjoy the ministry more or how can I improve the quality of my prayers and demonstrate trust in Jehovah? This self-evaluation process helps us stay focused on our service to Jehovah and continue growing spiritually.
15, 16. What does Robert's experience teach you?
Robert's experience teaches us the importance of examining ourselves to identify our abilities and areas in which we can improve. Although he resisted a temptation by rejecting a companion's invitation, he reflected on his response and recognized that he could have been firmer in his decision. Comparing himself with Joseph's firmness towards Potiphar's wife, he understood the need to strengthen his friendship with Jehovah. This reflection encourages us to honestly evaluate ourselves when we face similar situations. Although we can overcome the temptation initially, it is important to ask ourselves if we have responded quickly and firmly.
17. As seen in Robert's experience, what effect does our loyalty have on Jehovah's name?
Robert's experience illustrates how our loyalty to Jehovah can have a significant impact on how others perceive God's name. By rejecting temptation and standing firm in his convictions, Robert showed the integrity of his faith and avoided tarnishing the name of Jehovah. His partner, surprised by his decision, recognized that she had underestimated the sincerity and righteousness of the Witnesses. of Jehovah. This situation highlights how our actions can influence others' perception of our faith and God.
18. What are you determined to do after you are baptized? (See also the box “Two very useful articles”).
After being baptized, one is determined to sanctify Jehovah's name in all circumstances. This commitment shows God our determination to follow his commands and to remain faithful despite the challenges and temptations we face. Jehovah recognizes our efforts by strengthening us to do right at all times. With his help we can constantly follow Jesus and remain steadfast in our dedication to God. he.
Two very useful articles
If your parents are teaching you the truth, it will help you to read the two articles in the “What Should I Do After I am Baptized?” series in the “Young People Ask” section of jw.org. Part 1 will help you maintain your friendship with Jehovah, and Part 2 will help you maintain integrity in the face of problems and temptations.
WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?
In what sense do Christians carry a “torture stake day after day”?
We carry a torture stake day after day, in the sense that as Followers of Jesus, we face difficulties and trials in our Christian life, some of them painful that require sacrifice and perseverance.
What can you do to consistently follow Jesus after you are baptized?
To consistently follow Jesus, after baptism I can maintain and develop spiritual habits such as prayer, Bible study, attending meetings, and preaching by seeking ways to expand my ministry and stay strong spiritually.
Why will meditating on your vow of dedication help you be faithful?
Meditating on our vow of dedication will help us be faithful, because we will remember the promise we made to Jehovah to do his will, giving up our own desires and ambitions. This will strengthen our resolve to please God and resist temptations.
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