The Father's testimony about His Son at His baptism is also reflected in us. We suffered great loss because of Adam's fall, for, descending from him, we were born with a sinful nature that cause us to sin (Psalm 51:5; Romans 6:23). When we accept Jesus as Savior and Lord, we receive the complete forgiveness provided by Him in His death. Therefore, we need to confess our iniquities to Him immediately (1 John 1:9).

Some get excited when they see others being baptized and ask for it too; however, they are still under the devil's kingdom and, after “baptism,” they drift away. See: baptism does not save anyone, but it helps the baptized person to break free from the evil force that wants to bring them back into sin. In our church, we instruct pastors to teach a baptism course. This way, Christians will know the blessings that come from fulfilling this ordinance.

In this course, they learn about at least six blessings received at baptism. The convert descends into the waters aware that he is not taking a bath, but rather having a solid opportunity to improve his faith. We can also “hear” within ourselves what Jesus heard from Heaven. Christ had no sin, but He understood everything that is received through baptism. We will come out of the waters hearing the same declaration from the Father. Believe and live!

God is pleased with anyone who fulfills all His righteousness, as His Son said when John the Baptist questioned Him about baptizing Him: And John tried to prevent Him, saying, “I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?” (Matthew 3.14). But Jesus answered and said to him, “Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed Him. (Matthew 3.15).

Jesus was born like us, but from the divine seed. When we receive Him as Lord and Savior, we become members of His Body. We need to be baptized to strip ourselves of the body of flesh and the body of sin, so that the old nature may be buried, and our spirit circumcised. Thus, we will receive the remission of sins to walk in newness of life (Romans 2:28,29; 6:3-11; 15:8; Colossians 2:11,12; 3:9,10). These truths will help you in your battles of faith!

Christ was a perfect Man, without sin, but He sought John to baptize Him. Anyone who accepts Jesus receives the power to become a child of God and thus live free from sin (John 1:12). However, in order to be pleasing to the Father, it is necessary to follow His guidance: And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. (Matthew 10.38). There is more in God for you to experience!

No one ever spoke like the Master. No one ever cared as much for others as the Savior did. No matter how well-intentioned religious people may be or strive to be, no one has labored as the Lord has to care for those who live in error. To love Jesus is to have His commandments and keep them (John 14:21). This pleases God!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares