“Now is the especially favorable time!” (2 COR. 6:2).
1. a) What are some of the blessings of being baptized?
Some of Jehovah's blessings include receiving forgiveness for our sins and God's approval. Furthermore, we enjoy a clear conscience and set an excellent example for those who have not yet taken that step.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
We truly love Jehovah and want to do his will. When we get baptized and dedicate ourselves, we know that we will receive forgiveness for our sins and Jehovah's approval. We also set a good example for those who have not yet taken that step.
1. b) What will we see in this article?
In this article we will see why some people hesitate to get baptized, why it is good to keep in mind that the end is very near, and what the benefits are of striving without delay to reach that goal.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
In this article we will see, first, why some do not decide to be baptized; second, why it is good to keep in mind that the end is very near; and third, what are the benefits of striving without delay to reach that goal.
WHY SOME PEOPLE CAN'T DECIDE
2. Why do some people not dare to be baptized?
Some are afraid to be baptized, thinking they will never be good enough to please God. But we must remember that God doesn't expect us to be perfect; He will be pleased with our worship as long as we give Him our best.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Psalm 103:13-14 highlights that God understands our limitations. This helps us overcome the fear of not being good enough, because it shows that God doesn't demand perfection, but rather sincere effort.
Because they may fear opposition or know they will no longer fit in with family, friends, or relatives in general, which can generate fear of rejection. But we must keep in mind that Jehovah will always be our main pillar. We don't have to be afraid, because he will always be there to protect us. If he protects us, what can man do to us?
3. Why do some people postpone the decision to be baptized? (See also the image.)
Some postpone the decision to get baptized because they believe that extensive Bible knowledge is necessary before making that decision. However, if they love Jehovah sincerely, understand the Bible's basic teachings, have repented of their sins, and are determined to obey Jehovah, they are ready to be baptized.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
One of the reasons is that they think they don't have enough biblical knowledge.
The account in Acts 16:25-33 shows that Paul and Silas were in prison when an earthquake struck, blowing open the prison doors. The jailer was very worried, thinking they had escaped; however, Paul and Silas were still there. They then took advantage of the situation to preach to him and give him basic teachings, and he was baptized. This shows us that it is not necessary to know the entire Bible, but rather the fundamental teachings of God's Word.
The account at Acts 16:25-33 shows us that, although knowledge is necessary for baptism, some people can progress very quickly. Therefore, there is no fixed time or set number of books that must be studied to reach baptism. What is important is to have Jehovah’s standards and principles firmly rooted in one’s heart, just as happened with the jailer and his family, who were baptized.
The jailer and his family realized that what had happened was a miracle from Jehovah to free his servants. This helped them to recognize that Jehovah is the true God.
In the image, we notice the expression of the jailer and his family. They appear completely convinced that what Paul was telling them was the truth, because they understood it.
ILLUSTRATION
It is night and Paul and Silas are preaching to a jailer and his family, who are listening attentively.
Paul and Silas preached to the jailer and his family, and they were immediately baptized. (See paragraph 3.)
4. What is another reason why some people are hesitant to get baptized? (See also the image.)
Another reason some hesitate to get baptized is that they focus on the cost of taking that step and worry too much about the sacrifices they will have to make to serve Jehovah. Furthermore, they feel they will not be able to live up to Jehovah’s standards. They are afraid of committing a serious sin after baptism and being disfellowshipped from the congregation.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
The paragraph mentions this young woman, Candace, who says, “Part of me really enjoyed the life I had.” They may like what they are learning, but they also like their current lifestyle, and they find it difficult to think about making changes in their lives.
Luke 14:27 clearly states, “Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” This is what Jesus Christ said. Carrying the cross, as the passage explains, is the price we must pay. Every construction, event, or project we undertake has a price; we must calculate, plan, and complete it. That is why some are afraid, because they think it is too great a sacrifice.
The image shows a nun explaining baptism to a woman. As she speaks, the woman is thinking about the life she doesn't want to leave, seeing it as a sacrifice.
They can weigh up what their current life brings them against what Jehovah will give them if they serve him. Yes, they enjoy life now, but only temporarily. In contrast, if they serve Jehovah, their happiness will be eternal.
They may find it encouraging to know that they are not alone in feeling this way. In fact, many people experience the same thing, but with Jehovah's help, they have been able to overcome that fear.
Some think that, even though they already have a basic understanding, if they continue living as they have been and commit a serious sin, they could be expelled; and that fear may also prevent them from taking that step.
ILLUSTRATION
A sister is giving a Bible lesson to a woman. As the sister speaks, the woman imagines herself drinking alcohol and dancing in a nightclub with her friends.
Some want to please God, but they are concerned about the sacrifices they will have to make to serve Him. (See paragraph 4.)
5. What should we consider when thinking about getting baptized? (Matthew 13:44-46).
When thinking about getting baptized, we should consider the value and not so much the price we have to pay, in the same way that when we go to buy something and see that its value is greater than its price, we will surely buy it immediately.
We should not focus only on the price we will pay when we get baptized, that is, on the changes we have to make, but on the immense value of what we will gain: a good friendship with Jehovah.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
If we don't understand its value or the reward it will bring, we're making a bad decision. It might be a fleeting whim; however, that benefit won't last forever. There will come a time when, if we haven't thought it through or truly valued it, it won't yield any results that help us move forward.
In Matthew 13:44-46, Jesus Christ explained this beautifully. Two men considered a treasure and a very valuable pearl worth all their efforts to acquire. Now, such material treasures can be lost, since, in time, people lose their lives and their possessions. But by valuing the truths of the Kingdom—which are far more valuable than any treasure or pearl—one is willing to pay the price for something truly precious: Bible truths. Therefore, it is worth meditating on this and recognizing that nothing should prevent us from taking the step of dedication and baptism.
Two good questions to ask are: Am I convinced that I have found something truly valuable? And: Do I consider my friendship with Jehovah, the hope of living forever, and the loving spiritual family he has given me to be genuine treasures? If the answer is yes, we are on the right track.
6. What can help us have a receptive heart?
Asking Jehovah for help in softening our hearts so that the Kingdom seed can flourish can help us develop a receptive heart. We must not give up, but ask God for help in gaining “a new heart,” one that is receptive to his guidance.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Ezekiel 36:26 says: “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.”
The important thing is that we shouldn't say, "I'm just like this, I'm not going to change." The point is, if we feel that we have this inner conflict, we shouldn't give up. We know that Jehovah will help us, but we have to ask him for it.
We know that those who work the land recognize that not all soil is good: some is very hard, and other soil is dry. It takes a lot of work from the farmer to make that soil produce. Likewise, sometimes our hearts can be hard or have deeply ingrained tendencies; but we can cultivate them and sow in them the good things that Jehovah gives us so that they may flourish.
It requires great humility: asking Jehovah and acknowledging that our hearts can be hard. Therefore, we must be humble and, as the psalmist mentioned at Psalm 86:11, ask Jehovah to unify our hearts so that we may fear his name. So, it is a constant effort to soften our hearts.
A very practical piece of advice found at Ezekiel 18:31 is to free oneself from any offenses one may have committed. When we are clear about what Jehovah wants, we should strive to leave behind those sins or any division we may have when deciding to get baptized. The important thing is to be clear about the value of the decision we are about to make.
7, 8. Why do some young people not progress toward baptism? (See also the picture.)
Some young people do not progress toward baptism because of the influence of others, such as school counselors who may promote ideas contrary to God's standards. Following such advice can have terrible consequences, such as spiritual harm and alienation from Jehovah.
Furthermore, in some cases, even within the home, there are young people whose parents focus too much on studies or future employment and do not encourage them enough to set spiritual goals, which can also hinder their progress toward baptism.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
It may be due to the influence of other people; for example, students who are open-minded about morality and who accept all lifestyles.
Sometimes it is the parents themselves who hold their children back. They tell them they are too young, or that they should study first, or that they should first figure out what they want to do with their lives, and they don't encourage them to have spiritual goals.
For example, Proverbs 20:11 clearly states: “Even a child reveals his character by his actions.” This suggests that a young person can approach his parents and say, “Help me, I have this goal.”
In the image, we see a young man who, according to research he has already conducted, has a solid foundation, as evidenced by his book. He is expressing his concerns to his parents and perhaps seeking their support, speaking with them personally and asking for advice.
When children are small, the responsibility lies with the parents. But it's wonderful to see them grow and develop their abilities, and how they themselves begin to recognize what they can do. Then they say, "I can do this, I can do that, I can go to such and such a place."
The boy in the illustration is now a young man, he has abilities and probably goals, and he is saying to his father and mother: “I need or want to do this, how can you help me?” or “How can I do it?” That's where the parents come in, but the initiative to serve comes more from the young man himself.
Proverbs 20:11 says: “Even a child shows his actions if his behavior is pure and right.” This shows us that knowing Jehovah and dedicating oneself to him does not depend on age; even being young is not a barrier, since young people too can dedicate themselves to Jehovah.
In the image, this young man is showing that, against all odds and despite the influence of others and the lack of support he would like from his parents, he is determined to be baptized. It is truly commendable that a young man, in the midst of such circumstances, decides to take this step.
ILLUSTRATION
A young man points to lesson 23 of the book Enjoy Life while talking to his parents.
What if you talked to your parents about getting baptized? (See paragraph 8).
9. Why do some people delay baptism?
Some people delay baptism due to peer pressure. They may want to wait for a friend or family member to be baptized together. While there's nothing wrong with being baptized on the same day as loved ones, it shouldn't depend on others or be a compelling reason to postpone baptism.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Some may delay their decision to be baptized due to peer pressure. For example, a friend or family member might tell them to wait to be baptized together. However, baptism should not depend on doing it as part of a group or family.
There's nothing wrong with wanting to be baptized alongside a family member. However, sometimes one person moves a little faster than the other. It's fine that they want to be baptized together, but if one of them is delaying their commitment, it wouldn't be right for the other to wait. On the contrary, it's a personal decision for each individual.
While it's not wrong to get baptized with a family member, the principle is that each person will be held accountable to Jehovah individually. Therefore, waiting for the other person simply because you want to be baptized together would not be a valid reason.
WHY KEEP IN MIND THAT THE END IS VERY NEAR
10. Why don't some people make all the necessary changes to get baptized?
Some do not make all the necessary changes to get baptized because they believe they have plenty of time to do so before the end comes. However, as Luke 12:40 shows, Jesus warned his disciples: “Always be ready, because the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not expect him.”
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
They might think, “Since when have they been saying the end is coming and nothing happens? Things stay exactly the same.” Then they think they still have time to decide as long as nothing concrete occurs; however, they overlook the fact that many prophecies are being fulfilled, as we well know.
It is important to heed the advice of Luke 12:40 regarding the need to be prepared. This applies both to those who have already been baptized and to those who have not yet been. Therefore, it is wise to act without delay, since the text reminds us that we do not know the exact time, but that the moment will come. So we must always remain prepared.
11. According to Psalm 119:60, how do we feel about Jehovah’s standards the more we get to know him?
We feel a desire to obey them immediately because we know that Jehovah loves us and that his standards are for our good. The more we come to know Jehovah, the more we love his standards and feel a desire to obey them without delay, as Psalm 119:60 shows.
Furthermore, since we do not know what tomorrow will bring and we may not have another day to “do what is right,” the time to do what Jehovah asks of us is now.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
The more we come to know Jehovah, the more we understand his great love for us and his wonderful qualities. His standards are always for our good—not only spiritually, but also physically, morally, and mentally. Therefore, when we learn his laws, we are motivated to apply them and obey them without delay.
Another reason to obey Jehovah’s standards without delay is that we do not know what will happen tomorrow. Our life is like a mist, as James 4:14 says. That is why it is important to act immediately.
James 4:17 says: “Therefore, if anyone knows what is right to do but does not do it, he is already sinning.” Sometimes those who have not yet been baptized may think, out of fear or for some other reason, that they have no responsibility before Jehovah. But the text indicates that, from the moment one knows what is right, one is sinning by not doing it.
12. What do we learn from the parable of the vineyard?
We learn that those who worked only one hour and still received the same pay as those who worked all day didn't do so earlier because no one had hired them, not because they were lazy. In fact, as soon as they were called, they went immediately. This teaches us that, like them, we should respond immediately to Jesus' call to be his followers and collaborate in preaching.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
We learn that both those who have been baptized for many years and those who are being baptized now will receive the same denarius; that is, the same blessing.
The paragraph suggests that we might think some of us have worked longer and others shorter, but that's not the point. Those who worked less were simply not invited before; however, their willingness is noteworthy. As soon as they were invited, they got to work, and for that, they deserve the same pay.
Jehovah is very merciful and has always shown that he accepts those who choose to serve him. An example of this occurred when the Israelites left Egypt, as several Egyptians joined them at the last moment, after having witnessed so many signs.
The new clarifications have mentioned that many people, including our own family members, may decide to serve Jehovah. Even if it is at the last minute, they can make that decision, and Jehovah will accept them.
13. What do we learn from Lot's wife?
We learn that we should not postpone our spiritual progress or become attached to material possessions or what we leave behind. Lot's wife knew that destruction was imminent, but her attachment to what she was leaving behind led her to disobey. This teaches us that we must act without delay, because the opportunity for salvation will not be available forever.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Lot's wife knew about the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah; even so, she chose to cling too tightly to the possessions she was leaving behind. This reminds us that we, too, know that the door of salvation will not be open forever. There will come a time when Jehovah will close it permanently.
From Lot's wife, we learn that now is the time to make the necessary changes so that we can get baptized. Of course, Jehovah does not expect us to be perfect or to do everything perfectly, but rather that we strive to follow his standards.
Luke 13:25 says that the owner of the house keeps the door open, but the time will come when he will lock it. This means that now you have the opportunity to be baptized, if you haven't been yet, and those who are already baptized, to continue steadfast on this path.
Luke 13:24 says: “Be strong.” So, it means that the matter is not easy, but if we put it off, it will never get easier; it will always be difficult. However, with Jehovah’s help, everything will turn out well.
The paragraph says that those who are putting off their spiritual progress will likely find that making last-minute changes to please Jehovah is more difficult than they imagined. We can picture Lot, a righteous man, talking with his wife long beforehand about things she could certainly improve, and perhaps she thought, “I can make the change in the end.” But because she didn’t make the changes in time, her attachment to what she was leaving behind led her to disobey.
Those who postpone things thinking, "I can do it in the end," may realize that it is not as simple as they imagined, because they did not prepare with enough time.
14. What effect should seeing the fulfillment of end-time prophecies have on you?
Seeing the fulfillment of end-time prophecies should motivate us to be vigilant and to make the necessary changes so that we can get baptized as soon as possible. Furthermore, seeing the fulfillment of prophecies that show the end is near strengthens our confidence that Jehovah will continue to keep all his promises and impels us to keep taking steps toward baptism.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Those who are not baptized should be motivated to make the necessary changes and get baptized as soon as possible. For 1 Peter 4:7 mentions that we must be watchful, since the end has drawn near. Those who are already baptized should remain steadfast in their dedication to Jehovah.
Delving deeper into the topic of prophecies will be crucial, because many people may think that, since they don't directly affect them, perhaps they aren't coming true. However, upon closer analysis, they will see that they are indeed being fulfilled, that the end is near, and that they must act immediately. They should no longer delay making that decision.
15. With what attitude should we await the day of Jehovah? (2 Peter 3:10-13).
We must await Jehovah’s day with a watchful attitude and with a “deep longing” for it. We keep in mind that that day is very near and we long for its arrival. Furthermore, we must be prepared, striving to perform “holy acts of conduct and deeds of devotion to God.”
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
We must wait for the day of Jehovah, knowing that it can come at any moment, and we must be ready when it arrives.
As 2 Peter 3:11 shows, we should consider what kind of people we are and strive to prepare ourselves for it by performing acts of holy conduct and devotion.
The paragraph makes a key point: our attitude should be one of intense longing for that moment to arrive. It shouldn't be out of fear, like some ideas related to fear of baptism or other concerns. There should be no fear of the future, but rather an intense desire for Jehovah's blessings to come.
2 Peter 3:11, 12 mentions that while we wait and are keenly aware of the arrival of Jehovah’s day, we must perform holy acts of conduct and deeds of godly devotion. It is not a passive waiting, like “let’s see what happens next,” but rather a duty: we must perform holy acts of conduct and deeds of devotion every day of our lives. Therefore, we are not waiting passively, but we must be working for Jehovah.
THE BENEFITS OF ACTING WITHOUT DELAY
16. When is the best time to progress toward baptism? (2 Corinthians 6:1, 2; see also the pictures.)
The best time to move toward baptism is now. Just like the Ethiopian eunuch, when Philip preached to him, as soon as he understood the truth about the good news, he didn't postpone his decision and, as soon as he had the opportunity, he was baptized. He didn't make excuses, but asked Philip, "What prevents me from being baptized?"
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
The best time to move toward baptism is now. For in this passage, we are given the example of Philip and the Ethiopian. As soon as Philip explained the Ethiopian's doubt and told him about Jesus, they passed by a place where there was water, and he said, “What prevents me from being baptized?” He wasn't thinking “let's see when” or waiting to learn more, but decided at that moment to be baptized.
The paragraph reads: “As soon as he understood the truth about the good news and the opportunity to be baptized presented itself, he did not postpone the decision.” This shows us that if a person already understands the truth, he is ready to be baptized.
The image shows that the student has already studied, understood, and decided. Now he is speaking with the elders so that he can take the same step as the Ethiopian man did at that moment.
The paragraph motivates us not to put it off, to act immediately, and to strive to understand the truth about the good news of the Kingdom.
ILLUSTRATION
Series of images: 1. The Ethiopian eunuch putting his foot in the water while Philip points with one hand to the water and with the other to the eunuch, inviting him to be baptized. 2. In a Kingdom Hall, the Bible student and the sister from the previous image are smiling and talking with two elderly people.
The example of the Ethiopian eunuch teaches us that the best time to progress toward baptism is now. (See paragraph 16.)
17. What can we be sure of?
We can be sure that Jehovah wants to help us develop a strong friendship with him and that, with his support, we can overcome any fear, anxiety, or influence that is hindering our progress. In that way, we can feel truly happy, having a good conscience before God, and “the things that are behind us” will probably no longer seem so important.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
We can be sure that Jehovah wants to help us develop a strong friendship with him.
We can be sure that, whatever our fears or anxieties may be, Jehovah can and wants to support us. As Romans 2:4 says, he is trying to lead us to repentance.
When you make this good decision to be baptized, you will feel very happy to have a good conscience before God and the things you leave behind will probably no longer seem so important.
WHAT WOULD YOU ANSWER?
Why don't some people decide to get baptized?
Some hesitate to get baptized because they may fear not being good enough or facing opposition, or because they believe they lack sufficient Bible knowledge. Furthermore, they may focus too much on the sacrifices involved in serving Jehovah or doubt their ability to meet his standards. They may also be influenced by others, such as family members, counselors, or friends.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
It may be out of fear, out of fear of not becoming good enough to please Jehovah, or also out of fear of opposition.
Another reason is the belief that one does not have enough Bible knowledge and the cost involved in taking that step. However, the recommendation is not to focus solely on the price to be paid or the changes to be made, but on the immense value of what will be gained: a close friendship with Jehovah.
Why wouldn't it be wise to postpone baptism?
It would not be wise to postpone baptism because we do not know how much time we have or when the end will come, since Jesus warned that it will come when we least expect it. Furthermore, love for Jehovah compels us to obey him without delay, keeping in mind that the door of salvation will not be available indefinitely.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Because the end of the system of things is drawing ever closer, and we must be very mindful of that day. Some people believe they have plenty of time to make changes, but we don't know what tomorrow will bring, and we may not have another day to do the right thing.
Because we must do everything necessary to be found faithful before it is too late, since the doors of salvation will not remain open indefinitely. When God's appointed time arrives, they will be locked permanently, and no one will want to be left outside knocking without being let in, as Luke 13:25 says.
What is the best time to progress towards baptism?
The best time to move toward baptism is now, without postponing the decision. The example of the Ethiopian eunuch shows that, as soon as he understood the truth and had the opportunity, he was baptized immediately.
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS
Now is the time to progress toward baptism, as shown by the example of the jailer and his family, as well as the Ethiopian. They were not baptized out of emotion; they already had a basic knowledge of the Bible, but when certain teachings were explained to them, they came to understand them.
Today we have been given a greater understanding of the importance of valuing our friendship with Jehovah, the hope he has given us, and our worldwide brotherhood. Many brothers and sisters have already grasped this and are making the decision to get baptized.
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