INTRODUCTION: What further steps do I need to take?
- There are at least two important steps that you need to take as you begin to live in your new life.
Both are taught in the bible and therefore we need to obey them.
- Note however, that these are not restrictive rules but instead steps that will release you into the fullness of what God has for you.
However, you should talk to God about how He wants you to go about these steps.
Generally they are different for each person and there are no hard and fast rules.(i) Water Baptism.
- The first step you need to consider is water baptism. Matthew 28:19
This is taught in the Word of God in a number of places and you should take the time to read these scriptures and let God's Spirit teach you. Ephesians 4:5, Romans 6:3.
- All believers should be baptized because this is a witness to all that you have put away your old life and now are making God the centre and source of your future. Galatians 3:27, Colossians 2:12
NOTE: The story of the Ethiopian in Acts 8:26-38
Your Pastor Mitchr will give you more information on this subject or you can click here.(ii) Baptism of the Holy Spirit.
- The second baptism you should be aware of is the Baptism of the Holy Spirit.
This is a very controversial subject but the evidence in the Bible is that this is a part of the work of God in your life.
The bible teaches us that we can experience the Holy Spirit if we will ask the Father according to Luke 11:13 "Won't your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?"
These are the words of Jesus Himself.
- John the Baptist also made reference to this when he said of Jesus that "He will baptise you with the Holy Spirit and fire." Matthew 3:12.
This is a gift given by God to be empowered every believer for service.
CONCLUSION:
- Baptism is a matter that needs to be considered by every new Christian. As we have shown you there are two types of baptism.
- The first is "water" baptism which is a ceremony for new Christians where they testify as to a change of life that has taken place through Jesus. This act is to show that you are putting away the old life and being resurrected into a new life.
- The second type is the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
- These two baptisms are good for any Christian to seek and undertake. Remember, however, that there seems to be no specific order for these. They both come after you have made a decision for Christ.
- Pastor Mitch can give you more information on these or you can click here for more information.
A prayer for direction:
"Heavenly Father,
I am seeking you for all that you have for me in my new life.
Father, lead me and guide me according to your Word and your plan for my life,
in Jesus Name
Amen."