I Have Been Baptized...Now What?
At the age of fifteen, I decided to be baptized
into Jesus Christ for the remission of my sins. Up to this point, it
seemed as though the goal of my teachers, parents and brothers and
sister was to encourage me to be baptized. Yet, once I did make that
decision it seemed as though there were a few moments of confusion
afterwards. I thought to myself, “Well, I did it. I have been
baptized…now what?” This is the article I wish I would have read ten
years ago when I made that decision to obey Jesus Christ. Here are some
ideas, based on Biblical examples, of things we should do after we put
our faith in Jesus Christ.
Use your every opportunity to continue learning.
In Acts 2, after “three thousand souls were added” to the church
by baptism (41), we find these same individuals continuing to learn.
Verse 42 says, “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’
doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.”
These new converts continue to learn from the apostles. In fact, they
did so “steadfastly.” This term implies consistency. Every time
the apostles were teaching, these new disciples were there learning. Is
this your goal? Do you plan to attend every Bible study, every worship
service, every singing, every night of a gospel meeting, every
opportunity to learn? In addition, are you willing to study for yourself
at home as the Berean converts did (Acts 17:11)? Is prayer a regular
habit in your life? Spiritual results will come as we use spiritual
opportunities.
Spend time with other Christians.
We read more about these first converts in Acts 2:44-46, “Now all who
believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their
possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need.
So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread
from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of
heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.” These
first Christians did not just get baptized and think there was nothing
more to do. They began developing stronger relationships with one
another. This bond was formed by learning together at public assemblies
and by spending time together in one another’s homes. Cultivating
relationships with other Christians helps us grow stronger in our effort
to serve Christ.
Teach someone else.
After a short period of peace, the Jerusalem church began to be heavily
persecuted for their beliefs. Many of them had to leave the city for
fear of unjust imprisonment or death. Yet, this did not stop them from
teaching others. Acts 8:4 says, “Therefore those who were scattered
went everywhere preaching the word.” These Christians did not allow
intimidation to stop them. Instead, it made their boldness even
stronger. If the message of Christ saves souls, then it is worth
teaching despite the consequences. The good news of Jesus Christ is too
great a story to keep it to ourselves. Tell somebody and offer them the
hope that can change their lives and eternities.
Rejoice.
If you have placed your faith and trust in Jesus Christ, turned from
your sins and been baptized into Christ, you have every reason to
rejoice (Acts 2:47). Your past sins are forgiven! Heaven is in your
future! You are now a part of the greatest family—God is the Father,
your brothers and sisters are God’s children! You have a renewed purpose
in life! You have boundless opportunities to be a brightening influence
in a dark world. Rejoice.