Took a young man fishing yesterday August 4, 2013). It was a beautiful day in so many ways. We had worshiped God in the morning and this young man decided he wanted to repent of his sins and serve God in righteousness. After our assembly I asked him what he wanted to study next and he replied "baptism". We planned a canoe / fishing trip on the river for later that day. I thought I might have a chance to speak with him further about the gospel. I had been studying with him off and on for more than a year. Only now he has reached a point where he will make his decision for God. In the truck on the way to river, in the canoe while on the river and again, in the truck on the way home we spoke of the purpose of baptism. Having grown up in a denominational church that taught differently from the scriptures, it was important to understand that baptism in the name of Christ is the "new birth" and the moment when one is forgiven for sins through the blood of Jesus. Before we got back to the house, AJ had made his decision. I found it interesting that on a day when AJ had spent time "catching fish", Jesus was in the process of "catching AJ" in the gospel net. Even as we were on the river I reminded him of a passage in Ecclesiastes 9:12 - "For man also knoweth not his time: as the fishes that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare, even so are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly upon them." I was hoping the cumulative effect of a lot of teaching would come together to convict this young man that is was time for him to reach a decision. As we were driving home he spoke about needing to be baptized. I asked him why he did not mention it earlier when we were at the river. As it turned out we later went to the church building where AJ was immersed for the remission of his sins. A new life begins. God has great power to transform the life of one who will surrender to His will. I believe Aaron will continue to submit to the Lord and learn how to walk in the light of truth. I commend his example to you, that of humbly submitting to the commands of God as revealed in His Word. The result: salvation. Mark 16:16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that disbelieveth shall be condemned. The power is in the gospel (Romans 1:16). It calls us to repent (turn away from sin... and turn back toward God). I magnify the person of Jesus Christ and praise God for His mercy and grace. May God be glorified in all that we say and do. I am encouraged by those who embrace the love of God and surrender to His saving grace. Thanks, AJ, you made my day.
Posted on: Mon, 05 Aug 2013 14:29:34 +0000
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