Baptism is not the end of our service to God, but is the beginning of a lifetime commitment of total dedication to Him. Here is a brief list of a few of the responsibilities Christians should fulfill. One who is considering baptism needs to be aware of what God will expect of Him after he becomes a Christian (for more specific information about these duties, see the links at the end of this study):
Diligent Bible study is our only way of learning God's will and avoiding error. Acts 17:11; Psa. 1:2; 2 Tim. 2:15; 3:16,17.
Are you willing to study the Bible diligently?
Prayer is our means of thanking God, praising Him, and making known our needs. Phil. 4:6; 1 Pet. 5:7; Matt. 6:9-13; 1 Thess. 5:17.
Are you willing to pray regularly?
New Testament Christians always were recognized as part of a local church. They committed themselves to be involved and actively participate in the work of that church. See Acts 9:26-28; 11:26; Heb. 13:17; 1 Cor. 1:2; Eph. 4:16 (cf. next point).
This church must be scriptural in worship, name, organization, salvation, etc.
We should come on the first day to commune and give -- Acts 20:7; 1 Cor. 16:1,2.
We should come whenever the church meets to study, sing, & pray -- Heb. 3:12,13; 10:24,25; John 4:24; Eph. 4:16; 1 Thess. 5:11; Acts 11:26; 2:42; 1 Cor. 14.
Are you willing to regularly attend whenever the church meets?
* In our family -- Eph. 5:22-6:4; Col. 3:18-21; Tit. 2:4,5.
* To those who are in need -- Luke 10:25-37; Acts 20:35; Jas. 1:27;
Matt. 25:34-40.
* To civil government -- Rom. 13:1-5; 1 Pet. 2:13,14; Matt. 22:17-21.
* In business -- Eph. 6:5-9; Tit. 2:9,10; Col. 3:22-4:1; Psa. 37:21.
Are you willing to learn & follow Bible teaching about how to treat others?
All Christians should work to learn how to lead others to Jesus -- Acts 8:4; Prov. 11:30; 2 Tim. 2:2,24-26; John 4:28-30,39; 1:40-46; Heb. 5:12.
Are you willing to share the message of Jesus with others?
Mark 7:20-23; Rom. 1:26-32; 1 Cor. 6:9-11; Gal. 5:19-21; etc.
Are you willing to correct any sins in your life as you learn of them?
We hope no members would practice sin. But if they do and refuse to repent, then the church must cease association and companionship with them - 1 Cor. 5; Matt. 18:15-17; 2 Thess. 3:6,14,15; Rom. 16:17,18; Tit. 3:10,11.
Are you willing to honor church disciplinary actions when needed?
Luke 14:26-33; Matt. 28:18-20; 16:24-27; 6:19-33; Rom. 12:1,2; 6:1-18.
Are you willing to forsake all your desires and give your whole life to Jesus?
What should a person do if he sins after baptism? -- Acts 8:22; 1 John 1:9.
Are you willing to repent of any sins you commit after baptism?
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