Baptism is the complete immersion or submersion in water, not a mere pouring
or sprinkling. The bible examples confirm this - Jesus was baptised in the
Jordan and after being baptised, he came "up from the water."
The one being baptised in water enters a special relationship as Jehovah's
servant, to do His will. The individual does not determine what the will
of God is for him, but it is God who makes the decision as to the use of
the individual and the placing of such one in the framework of His purposes.
Those who choose to dedicate themselves to Jehovah, do so after heartily
embracing the word of truth and repenting of their past sins. Because
baptism requires the individual to make a solemn decision, it is apparent
that one must at least be of age to hear, to believe and to make this
decision. Therefore, infant baptism has no value - rather, the child would
come under the form of merit of the believing parent, not because of any
so-called sacramental baptism.
On 3rd March 1996 I symbolised my dedication to Jehovah by water baptism.
Even though I knew it to be the truth after six months of studying, I faced
three years of fierce opposition from my husband. It took me that long to
be strong enough in the faith to put my complete trust in Jehovah and do what
I knew was right. I have never looked back. Jehovah has blessed my loyalty
to Him, and in my situation, set me free to serve him more fully.WHAT IS BAPTISM?