"Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." (John 3:5). The doctrine is very clear, we cannot enter into God's kingdom unless we enter into the waters of Baptism. It is the doctrine taught by Christ himself. But why is baptism so important? Some people that I have talked to as a missionary have told me about their beliefs, and some have stated the belief that you don't need to have baptism in order to be saved, you just need to have faith in Christ, and accept him in your life. I do not turn down others beliefs, or seek to put down what anyone believes. Faith is essential in order to enter God's Kingdom, just like it says in the Book of Mormon "... we are made alive in Christ because of our faith..." (2 Nephi 25:25). But there is more that is required then just to have a belief or faith in Christ, just like what Christ himself said "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven." (Matt. 7:21). Faith is the first step, but there is so much more expected of us, and that is where baptism comes in.
I have been thinking a lot about Baptism recently and why it is important. One of the greatest moments that missionaries experience on their missions is to see someone make that choice to follow the example of Jesus Christ and be baptized by someone who holds the priesthood authority of God. This is such a wonderful and joyous experience, because baptism is literally the gate that we enter, that puts us on the path that leads to eternal life. Baptism is the beginning of a new life of devoted Christlike discipleship. It is turning over a new leaf. Just as when someone is physically born, their life begins here on earth. Well when someone is born through the waters of baptism, they are spiritually reborn. It is incredible! Baptism cleanses us, and it makes us clean. But all these things are done through the blood of Jesus Christ. It is not really the physical water that washes us clean, but it is truly the blood of Jesus Christ that cleanses us. It is only through Jesus Christ that we can enter into the kingdom of God (2 Nephi 2:8). When we choose to be baptized, we accept Christ as our savior, and we promise that we will follow Christ in all that we do. That is what cleanses us and makes us free from our sins. It is truly the Lord
Jesus Christ. We have the opportunity as missionaries to see one of our friends that we have recently just met, enter into the waters of baptism this Saturday. It is so exciting because we know that as he makes this choice to follow Christ, he will be washed clean of his sins, and he will be able to enter God's kingdom. We all have this same opportunity. I love this gospel, and I know that it is through the Gospel of Jesus Christ, that we can be enabled to live with God for all eternity. I Love you all, and I hope you have a Great Day!
YOU ARE AWESOME!!!!
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