Good evening. I’m not sure if I should be baptized or not. My family doesn’t really have any religion, and it would seem strange to them. But I really like the church and the missionaries have suggested baptism. I’m supposed to tell them what I think tomorrow. I wish I could be more sure before I tell them. There’s one missionary in particular who I’d really like to baptize me, but I think he will be transferred soon. What do you guys think?
Jesus Christ was Himself baptized in the Jordan river to provide an example for each of us. (Reflections of Christ)
Hi friend. I am happy you're considering baptism! I love being a member of this church and hope you find the same blessings that I and millions of others have found in this wonderful religion.
It is true that you need to be properly prepared for baptism. If there are still central doctrines you need to learn, learn them! No one in the church knows everything, but a basic understanding is critical. If you need to strengthen your testimony further, do that too. No member has a perfect testimony, but it is important to have at least planted the seed of faith prior to baptism.
Often, though, people delay baptism for bad reasons. Change is always worrying. Of course you should proceed cautiously. But we shouldn't fear change when it's a change for the better! The true gospel of Jesus Christ is just such a blessing. Be careful not to delay accepting it into your life unnecessarily.
Only you can decide whether you really need more preparation, or if this is just an unproductive reluctance to accept a major change in your life. Ponder this question and pray to God for direction. I'll pray for you too.
Anonymous
2015-03-02 23:37:23
Through prayer, we can communicate with our Heavenly Father. He’s anxious to guide and help us.
Hello
First off, I commend you for asking this sincere question. Too many times, a person will allow outside influences play too much of a part in such a huge decision as the one you are facing. I agree with the previous comments, especially about the part that says if you need more time to investigate and gain or strengthen your own testimony, then by all means, take the time that you need.
I would caution against taking too much time though, because like all decisions in life, it is easy to procrastinate too long and then what one day may have seemed important to you, has taken a backseat to the newest most important decision you have to make
My last piece of advice would be to follow the direction that is given to all in the Book of Mormon, Moroni 10:4 and ask God, in the name of Christ, if what you have learned is true or not, and I testify to you, that your answers will be received through the Holy Ghost.
I wish you well on your journey and pray you find the answers you seek.
It is true that you need to be properly prepared for baptism. If there are still central doctrines you need to learn, learn them! No one in the church knows everything, but a basic understanding is critical. If you need to strengthen your testimony further, do that too. No member has a perfect testimony, but it is important to have at least planted the seed of faith prior to baptism.
Often, though, people delay baptism for bad reasons. Change is always worrying. Of course you should proceed cautiously. But we shouldn't fear change when it's a change for the better! The true gospel of Jesus Christ is just such a blessing. Be careful not to delay accepting it into your life unnecessarily.
Only you can decide whether you really need more preparation, or if this is just an unproductive reluctance to accept a major change in your life. Ponder this question and pray to God for direction. I'll pray for you too.
First off, I commend you for asking this sincere question. Too many times, a person will allow outside influences play too much of a part in such a huge decision as the one you are facing. I agree with the previous comments, especially about the part that says if you need more time to investigate and gain or strengthen your own testimony, then by all means, take the time that you need.
I would caution against taking too much time though, because like all decisions in life, it is easy to procrastinate too long and then what one day may have seemed important to you, has taken a backseat to the newest most important decision you have to make
My last piece of advice would be to follow the direction that is given to all in the Book of Mormon, Moroni 10:4 and ask God, in the name of Christ, if what you have learned is true or not, and I testify to you, that your answers will be received through the Holy Ghost.
I wish you well on your journey and pray you find the answers you seek.