By Bob W. Lovelace

Baptism is a time of rejoicing for man. In Acts 8:39 the joy of salvation follows baptism. The eunuch was baptized, and then went on his way rejoicing. It is a time of rejoicing for heaven as well (Lk. 15:10). Perhaps this is one time the Son acknowledges one before the angels of God (Lk. 12:8).

The important thing that happens when one is baptized scripturally is that their sins are washed away (Acts 22:16). They are translated from the power of darkness (the world of sin) into the Kingdom of God’s dear Son (Col. 1:13).

In view of the thoughts above it is right that we acknowledge our joy for those recently baptized. The joy of this church for the two young people recently baptized can be added to that which I have just mentioned above.

If you are reading this and have not yet been baptized scripturally, i.e. in the right mode (“baptism” means to immerse, plunge, submerge, see Col. 2:13; Rom. 6:4), and for the right reason (to wash away your sins, Acts 2:38; 22:16) then we encourage you to do so without delay. Your obedience is something we look forward to as well. When you do it will bring both heaven and man great joy!

AFTER BAPTISM YOUR EXAMPLE IS ALL IMPORTANT, MATT. 5:16

You are known now by the name you wear, “Christian.” One passage where the name is found is in Acts 11:26. In context here the name “christian” was first given to disciples as a result of the teaching of Barnabas and Paul at Antioch in Syria.

Some of the first teaching you do is by example, Matt. 5:16.

To give emphasis to the importance of one’s example consider the purposes stated in Titus 2:5 and I Tim. 5:14. One says “that the word of God be not blasphemed;” the other “give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.” These show “how” the world reacts when they know someone is a Christian and they are not an example of what a christian should be.

Consider this statement by Lydia “after” she was baptized. Acts 16:15, “And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.”

We notice that whatever participation she had with Christians prior to her baptism it was NOT that which she now has as a sister in Christ. Based upon her baptism they could judge her as faithful to the Lord!

Recognize Paul’s instruction in 1 Cor. 5:11, But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.

One is “named” or “called” a brother at baptism. Having begun in the faith you have the right to expect “all” christians to be faithful to our Lord. Should you find one “named” a brother who is not, then obey Paul’s command here.

FRIENDS & ACQUAINTANCES OUTSIDE OF THE CHURCH OF CHRIST

They are NOT what you are in Christ (Acts 26:28-29). You are going to meet many who “think” they are. You should deal with them scripturally (I Pet. 3:15) rather than emotionally. Remember, you don’t bring others whom you meet to Christ by acting like they are in Christ’s church when they are not.

OLD TEMPTATIONS, ROM. 11:22

Let’s review here two examples of temptations that came not long after one’s baptism.

First, there is Ananias & Saphirra, Acts 5:1-11. The point is not just that two people fell down dead. It is important that you realize God did not spare them just because they were “new” Christians! Rom. 11:22 tells you to “consider” the goodness and severity of God. “Consider” is a simple request, but new christians often don’t like to consider the severity of God.

Secondly, there is Simon the sorcerer, Acts 8:9-24. Again, Simon proves that old temptation “come back soon” so to speak. What came back for him? The wrong use of money; the desire for power. God put this here as a lesson for new christians.

GROWTH IS ESSENTIAL, I PET. 2:2

You cannot survive spiritually without it. There is what is called the “old disease” that makes children age quickly. It robs children of physical and mental growth because they have no time. This is an unnatural process.

Growth in Christ is a natural spiritual process. Peter identifies new converts as “babes” in Christ who need the sincere milk of the word (I Pet. 2:2). However, unlike the physical infant God intends that certain things be put into your minds, comprehended, and executed! This process is to continue until you grow up in all aspects (Eph. 4:15).

Do not be the christians mentioned in Heb. 5:12, who “by reason of time” ought to be teaching but have need of being taught again the first principles of the oracles of God.

Allow me to quickly answer, “How?” You will grow through the collective worship and work of the local church. Read Acts 2:42 and note the things continued steadfastly in mentioned there. Growth for you will come the same way it did for those in the first century.

Really, truly, actually read and study the Bible, 2 Tim. 2:15. If you don’t start NOW you will not grow in the “faith.” Nor will you develop faith (Rom. 10:17). Therefore, make “time” for the things that promote growth.

One simple, but effective method I recommend is the “One Year Bible.” That’s all it is, the Bible. Buy yourself one. The daily reading in the O.T. will help them understand how God deals with man; the readings in Psalms, Proverbs, and Eccl. will show how “foolish” this world really is and you will see how foolish you’ve been in the past, and when you still are at times; the New Testament will tell you what you need to know about Christ, the church, our hope, and godliness.

PERSECUTION, 2 TIM. 3:12

Here’s where work and acquaintances come in again! Peer pressure for young adults quite often consists of a few beers in the wrong place; a lie to cover for someone; theft that all know about but no one does anything; mistreatment of another that is being overlooked for others’ own selfish reasons, etc. Drinking parties are very popular in the work force. I Pet. 4:1-6 keeps us ALL on the right path here.

If there is hardship then “endure it” for God will be there to help you through it, 2 Tim. 2:3.

ENCOURAGING & EDIFYING OTHERS, HEB. 10:24-25

This is a necessary part of your life now, Heb. 10:24-25. Attendance is necessary whether young or old; or young or old in the faith! You must give as well as receive.

One can’t be gone all the time for sports, etc., one after another and fulfill their obligation.

Notice passages where it mentions “older,” “younger.” Begin thinking the rules are the same for ME as for ALL others. Read Titus 2:1-7 and see that it is as consistent for the old as the young. Some will teach when young, but say “No” when they are old. Adults when young might take three weeks vacation and speak proudly of their obligation to the local church. When old that three weeks sometimes turns into three to six months and they are gone all the time. No obligation is seen as “really” necessary. You may see someone older breaking God’s rules. Paul said, “Let no man despise thy youth.”

You’re just beginning. Run the race well! (Rev. 3:5) Your lives will be over in a shorter time than you realize.

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