What To Do After Baptism We have discussed the need for baptism, but that is just one step in the plan of salvation. Introduction • Before one may be properly baptized he should have first learned the gospel, believed in Christ, confessed Christ, and repented of sin. • Now, what is required of a person who has been baptized? • We will notice several things that are just as necessary as baptism itself. One Should Rejoice • Acts 8:35-39; 16:32-34 The Ethiopian eunuch and the Philippian jailor are examples of those who rejoiced following baptism. • Baptism must have some serious significance in salvation to result in such joy. Luke 15:4-10 When lost souls are found, heaven rejoices! Philippians 4:4 Constant joy is to be found “in the Lord”, and baptism is how one gets there (Galatians 3:27). ONE SHOULD KEEP COMPANY WITH OTHER DISCIPLES • Acts 9:18-19; 10:48; 16:15; 16:33-34; 18:8, 11 In case after case of conversion, those saved made a point to enjoy the company of other Christians, usually those who converted them. • Acts 2:46 Frequently sharing meals with fellow Christians is a worthwhile use of time. • Romans 12:5 Disciples are dependent on one another. • 1 Corinthians 5:11 If the company of other Christians is not made use of, then its loss during discipline is meaningless. ONE SHOULD KEEP LEARNING • Matthew 28:19-20 Jesus said that those taught and baptized should still be taught. • Acts 2:41-42 Baptized people “continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine”. • 2 Peter 3:18 Growth in grace and knowledge is commanded. • 2 Timothy 2:15 Study to show yourself approved to God--handling the word of God properly. ONE SHOULD EAT THE LORD’S SUPPER REGULARLY • Acts 2:41-42 Among the post-baptism actions specified is the breaking of bread. • Acts 20:7 Bread should be broken on the first day of the week. • 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, 17-20, 33 This breaking of bread is a commemoration of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. It is called “the Lord’s Supper” and should be done with the church. ONE SHOULD PRAY OFTEN • Acts 2:41-42 Another post-baptism action specified is prayer. • 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Luke 18:1 Prayer should be a constant in the life of a Christian. • Proverbs 28:9; Isaiah 59:1-2 Since the prayers of sinners are unheard, speaking to God is a unique privilege of the saved. ONE SHOULD LEAD OTHERS TO CHRIST • Acts 9:18, 20 Saul wasted no time between his baptism and his efforts to persuade others. • Matthew 5:14-16 The Lord’s people are meant to influence others. • Proverbs 11:30 It is wise to win souls! • 1 Thessalonians 1:3,8 The Thessalonians were commended for doing this. ONE SHOULD REMAIN MORALLY UPRIGHT • Romans 6:3-23; Colossians 2:12; 3:1-10 Baptism is presented as death to sin and resurrection to righteousness. Once baptized, the disciple should live accordingly. • 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 Washing, sanctification, and justification demands that sin be quit. • 1 John 2:1; Acts 8:22; James 5:16 The Christian should not sin, but if he does, the remedy is through prayer, repentance, and confession. • This is what will separate us from the world. Conclusion • 1 Corinthians 15:58 The saved person is called to steadfastness and work. • Revelation 2:10 Faithfulness is required until death. • This is a life-long journey of growth. • You need to help others get to heaven, otherwise you may not go. • You now know your duty to God, will you do it?