Chapter 27—Baptism
Baptism commemorates Christ’s resurrection and the candi-
date’s new birth—The resurrection of Christ is commemorated by
our being buried with Him by baptism, and raised up out of the watery
grave in likeness of His resurrection, to live in newness of life.—
Early
Writings, 217
.
Preparing Candidates
Ministers should give each candidate plain instruction regard-
ing baptism’s meaning—Our churches are becoming enfeebled by
receiving for doctrines the commandments of men. Many are received
into the church who are not converted. Men, women, and children are
allowed to take part in the solemn rite of baptism without being fully
instructed in regard to the meaning of this ordinance. Participation in
this ordinance means much, and our ministers should be careful to give
each candidate for baptism plain instruction regarding its meaning and
its solemnity.—
The Review and Herald, October 6, 1904
.
Church membership of little value without conversion—All,
high or low, if they are unconverted, are on one common platform.
Men may turn from one doctrine to another. This is being done, and
will be done. Papists may change from Catholicism to Protestantism;
yet they may know nothing of the meaning of the words, “A new
heart also will I give you.” Accepting new theories, and uniting with a
church, do not bring new life to any one, even though the church with
which he unites may be established on the true foundation. Connection
with a church does not take the place of conversion. To subscribe the
name to a church creed is not of the least value to any one if the heart
is not truly changed.—
The Review and Herald, February 14, 1899
.
Baptism should follow, not only instruction and belief, but also
practice—There is need of a more thorough preparation on the part of
candidates for baptism. They are in need of more faithful instruction
than has usually been given them. The principles of the Christian life
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