Written by: John Sernaque
Stewardship
CS - Counsels on Stewardship (1940) Chapter 8— The Baptismal Vow
Everyone who connects himself with the church makes in that act a solemn vow to work for the interest of the church, and to hold that interest above every worldly consideration. It is his work to preserve a living connection with God, to engage with heart and soul in the great scheme of redemption, and to show, in his life and character, the excellency of God’s commandments in contrast with the customs and precepts of the world. Every soul that has made a profession of Christ has pledged himself to be all that it is possible for him to be as a spiritual worker, to be active, zealous, and efficient in his Master’s service. Christ expects every man to do his duty; let this be the watchword throughout the ranks of His followers.... {CS 43.1}
All are to show their fidelity to God by the wise use of His entrusted capital, not in means alone, but in any endowment that will tend to the upbuilding of His kingdom. Satan will employ every possible device to prevent the truth from reaching those who are buried in error; but the voice of warning and entreaty must come to them. And while only a few are engaged in this work, thousands ought to be as much interested as they.—Testimonies for the Church 5:460-462. {CS 43.2}
The Baptismal vow buries the old man and the new man rises up in the newness of life. Buried is the old self as well as all the old errors, not to spring up again, as Satan would like. The new creature separates himself from the world, and devotes his interest to the church. As a spiritual worker, he will be active and zealous in the service for God and will dedicate a portion of his capital for the up building of God’s heavenly kingdom. He makes a vow to God to work for the church. Old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
Our Father, which art in heaven,
We thank You for giving us this opportunity to be born again, to become a new creature. We pray that You help us put away the old that we may devote our time, energy, and resources to Your church. That we may separate ourselves from this world and support the church with our means for the up building of Your heavenly kingdom. We pray that You bless the work and the means being used to further Your cause. Help us to remain engaged in the work and that our faith faileth not. We pray that You continue to provide for all our needs in abundance. We thank You for hearing and answering our prayers, in the name of Christ Jesus, we pray. Amen.
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