"What are you waiting for? Get up, get baptized" (ACTS 22:16).
1. What are some good reasons to get baptized?
Jehovah has given us the most valuable gift: life. As a sign of gratitude, it makes sense that we would want to dedicate our lives to him and get baptized. This step not only brings us closer to Him, but also gives us a clear spiritual identity as part of His family.
Psalm 73:24 assures us that Jehovah guides us with his counsel, which means that when we are baptized, we will never be alone in our decisions. Isaiah 43:1, 2 reinforces this idea by showing us that Jehovah knows us personally and protects us in difficulties.
Just as Noah and his family were saved by obeying Jehovah and entering the ark, today we show our faith by being baptized, which allows us to keep alive the hope of eternal life.
2. What are we going to analyze in this article?
Many people may feel doubts or fears before being baptized. Maybe they think they are not ready or that they need to make a lot of changes. However, this article will show us that this is not something new. Throughout history, millions of people have been in the same situation and have managed to overcome those challenges.
In the Bible we find stories of people who, despite facing opposition, doubts or bad habits, made the decision to be baptized. By studying their experiences, we can see what helped them and how to apply it to our own lives, since baptism is a progressive process. No one is perfect at the time of baptism, but with Jehovah's help and the support of the congregation, it is possible to make the necessary changes.
THE SAMARITANS WERE BAPTIZED
3. What obstacles did some Samaritans likely face in being baptized?
The Samaritans not only had to learn more about the Bible, but they also had to adjust their way of thinking. Their belief that only the first five books of the Bible were inspired by Jehovah limited their understanding of the Messiah. However, Deuteronomy 18:18,19 had made it clear to them that God would send a prophet like Moses. This helped some, like the Samaritan woman in John 4:25, recognize that Jesus was that long-awaited prophet.
Furthermore, prejudices against the Jews were very deep-rooted, so for many, accepting Jesus meant leaving those rivalries behind and focusing on Jehovah's truth. Despite these barriers, John 4:39 highlights that many Samaritans believed in Jesus, thus demonstrating that it is possible to overcome personal obstacles when there is faith and humility.
4. According to Acts 8:5, 6, 14, what did some Samaritans do when Philip preached to them?
The Samaritans had grown up with certain beliefs that differentiated them from the Jews, but when Philip spoke to them about Christ, they paid close attention to his message and accepted the word of God. Their willingness to listen shows that they were seeking the truth and that Jehovah was guiding them.
It is interesting to note that, despite the strong rivalry between Jews and Samaritans, the latter did not reject Philip just because he was Jewish. This may have been because they remembered texts such as Deuteronomy 10:17-19, which teach that God treats all people fairly.
The miracles that Philip performed also played a key role. Acts 8:7 mentions that he healed the sick and cast out demons, convincing many that God was with him.
5. What lessons do you learn from the Samaritans?
The Samaritans might have hesitated because of their previous beliefs or conflicts with the Jews, but upon hearing the truth, they responded immediately and were baptized. This teaches us that when we are convinced of the truth, we must act without delay. The Bible encourages us not to make excuses for doing God's will.
For example, Ecclesiastes 5:4 reminds us: "When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it." Postponing baptism could mean missing out on blessings and delaying our spiritual progress.
Following the example of the Samaritans, we can demonstrate our trust in God by acting decisively and getting baptized, as it is a step of faith that Jehovah blesses with his guidance and protection.
6. What does Ruben's example teach you?
Ruben, when faced with his doubts about the existence of God, did not settle for uncertainty, but took action. His story highlights the importance of personal study and in-depth research. Many people have found answers in Watch Tower publications, and in seeing the unquestionable Christian unity throughout the world.
The Bible emphasizes that true disciples of Christ are recognized by their love and unity. Ruben saw this in action when he visited the world headquarters of Jehovah's Witnesses, which reinforced his confidence that he was in God's organization.
Therefore, if someone has doubts, instead of walking away, they should do the same: humbly investigate, seek help from Bible publications, and approach the congregation.
SAUL OF TARSO WAS BAPTIZED
7. What did Saul have to correct?
Saul is a great example that anyone can change with Jehovah's help. Although he had been raised in Judaism and had a very strict religious upbringing, Saul was wrong in his view of Christians. His story shows how someone with erroneous beliefs can come to know the truth and take action.
The case of Saul also teaches us that baptism involves more than just knowledge: it requires a change of mentality and attitude. Many people today may have misconceptions about Jehovah and his purpose, but with a sincere heart and a desire to learn, they can come to know the truth and make the decision to be baptized.
ADDITIONAL COMMENT
Saul had to correct his understanding of what it meant to be a true follower of God. He thought that persecuting Christians was the right thing to do, but he needed to recognize that he was wrong and accept Jesus as the Messiah.
8. a) What helped Saul get baptized?
Saul was baptized after Jesus spoke to him from heaven and blinded him with a bright light. For three days he did not eat or drink, which indicates that he was reflecting deeply on what had happened. He became convinced that Jesus was the Messiah and that Christians had the truth.
Furthermore, he most certainly felt great guilt for having persecuted the followers of Christ, including for having been present at the murder of Stephen. Finally, Jehovah used Ananias to help Saul: this disciple spoke kindly to him, restored his sight, and encouraged him to be baptized immediately.
Saul's humility was key to accepting help and changing the course of his life, going from persecutor to defender of Christianity.
8. b) According to Acts 22:12-16, how did Ananias help Saul?
Ananias helped Saul in several ways. First, he approached him kindly and called him “brother Saul,” which surely comforted him, since Saul had persecuted Christians. Then, by the power of God, he restored his sight and explained that Jehovah had chosen him to know his will and bear witness to Jesus.
Furthermore, he encouraged him not to delay his baptism by saying: "And now, why are you waiting? Get up, be baptized and wash away your sins by invoking his name." Thanks to their help, Saul took immediate action, demonstrating humility and obedience by being baptized.
ILLUSTRATION
Saul entering the water to be baptized. A few people watch him smiling.
Ananias encouraged Saul to be baptized, and he accepted. Will you follow Saul's example? (See paragraph 8).
9. What lessons does Saul's example teach you?
Saul could have clung to his previous beliefs or feared rejection from his fellow Jews, but instead he showed great humility and courage in accepting Christ. Throughout his ministry, Saul—later known as the apostle Paul—faced numerous hardships, including imprisonment and shipwreck.
Even so, Paul never gave up or stopped preaching, nor did he stop trusting in Jehovah. His example motivates us not to allow fear or difficulties to stop us in our relationship with God.
10. How does Anna's example help you?
Anna faced strong opposition from her own family when she decided to study the Bible and get baptized. In his culture, abandoning the religion of his ancestors was considered a dishonor, which caused him to suffer ridicule and rejection. However, she stood firm because she loved Jehovah.
His story teaches us that even if we face difficulties or criticism for our faith, we are not alone. Jehovah will give us strength to endure it, just as he did for Anna. Furthermore, their example motivates us to keep a record of times when we have seen Jehovah’s help, which can strengthen our faith in difficult times.
CORNELIUS WAS BAPTIZED
11. What could have been an obstacle to Cornelius' baptism?
Cornelius was a Roman centurion and had a prestigious position in the army and in his community. For this reason, he may have faced pressure over his status, as Roman officials had political and military loyalties that may have conflicted with his new faith. However, his attitude was exemplary.
Acts 10:33 shows that he welcomed Peter enthusiastically and was willing to listen to everything God wanted him to do. Furthermore, the story indicates that Cornelius was baptized along with his family, which shows that he not only accepted the truth, but also positively influenced his people.
Cornelius was the first Gentile to be baptized, marking a milestone in the spread of Christianity to the nations. Cornelius never allowed his social position to stop him, nor did possible opposition in the army make him waver in his decision. This shows his humility and his sincere desire to please God.
12. What helped Cornelius get baptized?
Cornelius was able to be baptized because he had a strong fear of God and an attitude of constant prayer. According to Acts 10:2, not only he, but his entire household shared this awe. This prepared him to accept with humility the message that Peter conveyed to him.
When Peter told him the good news, Cornelius and his family put their faith in Christ and did not delay their baptism, but were baptized immediately.
Furthermore, his humility and unwavering faith led him to act without delay, making the necessary changes to worship Jehovah correctly, a reflection of his genuine faith and commitment to God.
13. What does Cornelius' example teach you?
Cornelius' example teaches us that a person's social position, responsibilities, or previous life should not be an obstacle to dedicating himself to Jehovah and being baptized.
Despite being a Roman centurion with influence and recognition, Cornelius did not let his status hold him back; Instead of clinging to his prestige, he showed humility and a willingness to change.
This reminds us that if someone feels that they need to make adjustments in their life before being baptized, they can trust that Jehovah will bless their efforts.
14. How does Tsuyoshi's example help you?
Tsuyoshi's example teaches us that when a person wishes to be baptized, they must make changes in their life to align with biblical principles. In her case, she worked at a flower arranging school where she participated in Buddhist rituals at funerals. As he learned what the Bible says about death, he realized he could no longer engage in those practices and made the decision to stop.
This decision could have affected his work, but by speaking with his boss, he received permission to continue without participating in the rituals. This shows that when we put Jehovah first, He helps us resolve difficulties and provides what we need.
THE CORINTHIANS WERE BAPTIZED
15. What obstacles might have prevented the Corinthians from being baptized?
The Corinthians faced several obstacles that could have prevented them from being baptized. The city of Corinth had a reputation for being materialistic and morally corrupt, with many practices contrary to Jehovah's standards. In that environment, accepting the truth was not easy. However, when the apostle Paul preached there, many of the Corinthians who heard the message began to believe and be baptized.
Furthermore, Jesus himself encouraged Paul in a vision, saying, “I have many people in this city,” indicating that there were people willing to change their lives to serve Jehovah. Paul stayed preaching in Corinth for a year and a half, helping new believers strengthen their faith despite the negative influences around them.
16. What helped the Corinthians get baptized? (2 Corinthians 10:4, 5).
What helped the Corinthians get baptized was the power of the Word of God and the holy spirit. Despite having lived in a materialistic and immoral environment, they managed to make important changes in their lives. As the verses we have read mention, they used powerful weapons of God to destroy any mental barrier that opposed the truth.
This example shows that regardless of a person's background, Bible study and the action of the holy spirit can change their life. Thus, any sincere person who desires to be baptized can receive Jehovah's help in overcoming obstacles and developing conduct that reflects his will.
17. What does the example of the Corinthians teach you?
The example of the Corinthians teaches us that, although making important changes in our lives can be difficult, with Jehovah's help it is possible. They did not give up or think it was impossible to change, but they strove to walk the narrow path that leads to eternal life.
This example is very encouraging for those who are struggling to overcome some vice or bad practice. Jehovah does not expect immediate perfection, but he does want to see sincere and constant effort.
18. How does Monika's example help you?
Monika's example teaches us that, although making changes in our lives can be difficult, Jehovah gives us the necessary strength if we turn to Him in prayer. Monika wanted to be baptized, but realized she had to stop certain habits, such as inappropriate entertainment and the use of bad language.
Although these changes were not easy, he relied on Jehovah through prayer and received the strength he needed. This example is useful for those who want to serve God but face personal obstacles. The key is to recognize what things do not please Jehovah and ask for his help to overcome them.
YOUR FAITH CAN MOVE MOUNTAINS
19. What will help you overcome obstacles as big as mountains? (See also the image).
What will help us is faith in Jehovah. Jesus taught his disciples that even if they had faith as small as a mustard seed, they could move mountains. This shows that, with faith in God, nothing is impossible.
Although the disciples still needed to strengthen their faith, Jesus assured them that Jehovah would help them overcome any obstacle. When we face difficulties in getting baptized, whether due to external opposition or internal struggles, faith that Jehovah supports us gives us the strength to continue forward.
ADDITIONAL COMMENT
What will help you overcome obstacles as big as mountains is having faith in Jehovah. Jesus promised that with strong faith, even if it is as small as a mustard seed, Jehovah will help us overcome any difficulty, no matter how great.
ILLUSTRATION
At an assembly, a group of very happy brothers and sisters applaud as the newly baptized pass by them.
Never doubt that Jehovah loves you and wants you to be part of his family. (See paragraph 19).
20. What effect have the examples we have seen in this article had on you?
The examples we have seen demonstrate that, although obstacles may seem great, faith in Jehovah and the determination to follow his will help us overcome them. By meditating on these examples, one can feel empowered and motivated.
Jehovah always offers his help to those who have the will to follow him, and as the experience of many Christians shows, with faith and effort, any difficulty can be overcome.
WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM THE EXAMPLE OF THE FOLLOWING CHRISTIANS OF THE FIRST CENTURY?
The Samaritans
From the example of the Samaritans we learn that true worship does not depend on our culture or place, but on the sincerity of our hearts and the willingness to do Jehovah's will. Despite social differences and barriers, Jesus taught that the worship accepted by God is that which is practiced in spirit and truth.
Saul of Tarsus and Cornelius
The example of Saul of Tarsus and Cornelius teaches us that no one is beyond the reach of Jehovah's mercy. Saul, despite his persecution of Christians, became a faithful follower of Christ. Cornelius, a Gentile, was also accepted by God because of his faith and willingness to make necessary changes. Both examples show us that repentance and sincere faith open the doors to salvation.
The Corinthians
From the example of the Corinthians we learn that, although change may be difficult, it is possible to overcome negative environmental influences with Jehovah's help. The Corinthians left behind immoral practices such as drunkenness and theft, and were able to be transformed by the power of God's word and his holy spirit.
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