Gospel Art Picture Kit
Matthew 3:13–17; 2 Nephi 31:5–12; Mosiah 18:8–11; 3 Nephi 11:23–26; D&C 68:27; Moses 6:64–65
We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. Articles of Faith 1:4
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Baptism is the introductory ordinance of the gospel. Being baptized by immersion by one having authority from Jesus Christ is necessary to become a member of the Church of Jesus Christ (see 3 Nephi 11:23–26). Adam was the first to be baptized (see Moses 6:64–65). Jesus was also baptized to fulfill all righteousness and to show us the way (see Matthew 3:13–17; 2 Nephi 31:5–12). When we reach the age of eight years, we are considered accountable for our own actions and can choose to accept the ordinance of baptism (see D&C 68:27).
With baptism we begin a new way of life. One of the great blessings of baptism is that it provides us with a fresh start as we strive for our eternal goal of returning to live with our Father in Heaven. If we have truly repented, baptism cleanses us from sin. We can then renew this cleansing by remembering and recommitting ourselves to our baptismal covenants. We do this each week when we partake of the sacrament.
Baptism is a witness to the world that we are willing to follow the Savior. When we are baptized, we make certain covenants with the Lord. We promise to serve Him and keep His commandments. The Lord promises that He will give us the Holy Ghost and that we can return to the presence of our Father in Heaven. (See Mosiah 18:8–11.)
Summary
Baptism by immersion (going completely under the water) by one having authority from Jesus Christ is necessary to become a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jesus was baptized and set an example for all of us. To be baptized we must be at least eight years of age so we will be old enough to know right from wrong. When we are baptized we covenant, or promise, that we will follow Jesus and keep His commandments. Each week when we take the sacrament, we remember our promises to Jesus and what He did for us.
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