Nothing brings Christian parents more joy than seeing their child “disown himself and pick up his torture stake and keep following” Jesus. (Mr 8:34; 3Jo 4) What can parents do to prepare their children to follow Jesus, dedicate their life to Jehovah, and get baptized? What are some indications that children are ready for the important step of baptism?

Read “A Message to Christian Parents” on pages 165-166 of Organized to Do Jehovah’s Will, and then consider the following questions:

Jesus told his followers: “Make disciples of people of all nations, baptizing them”(Matt. 28:19).  According to these words, the fundamental requirement for being baptized is that of being disciples. The disciple not only understands and accepts the teachings of Christ, but follows them carefully.  And even those who are relativelý young can do it.

·     What should parents teach their children?

Set a good example for your children, and inculcate Jehovah’s teachings in them. (Deut. 6:6-9) This includes using the information in the books What Does the Bible Really Teach? and “Keep Yourselves in God’s Love” to teach them basic Bible truths and prepare them to reason on Bible principles. Help your children to be able to explain their beliefs in their own words. (1 Pet. 3:15) The knowledge and encouragement they receive from you and from personal study, congregation meetings, and good associates will help them progress to baptism and beyond. Keep spiritual goals before them.

Proverbs 20:11 says: “Even a child is known by his actions, whether his behavior is pure and right.” What are some actions that would indicate that a child, either a boy or a girl, has become a disciple of Jesus Christ and is ready to get baptized?

A child who is progressing toward baptism should obey his godly parents. (Col. 3:20) Regarding Jesus when he was 12 years old, the Bible says: “He continued subject to [his parents].” (Luke 2:51) Of course, you cannot expect your child to be perfect. But one who desires to get baptized will strive to follow Jesus’ example and be known for his subjection to his parents.

He will also demonstrate an interest in learning Bible truths. (Luke 2:46)

Does your child want to attend meetings and participate? (Ps. 122:1)

Does he have an appetite for regular Bible reading and personal study? —Matt. 4:4.

A child progressing toward baptism endeavors to put Kingdom interests first. (Matt. 6:33) He is mindful of his responsibility as an unbaptized publisher and demonstrates initiative to go in the field service and talk at the doors. He shares in various aspects of the ministry and is not ashamed to let his teachers and schoolmates know that he is one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. He takes his assignments for the Life and Ministry Meeting seriously.

He also strive to remain morally clean by avoiding bad associations. (Prov. 13:20; 1 Cor. 15:33) This will be reflected in his preferences regarding music, movies, television programs, video games, and the use of the Internet.

Many have responded to the diligent efforts of their parents, made the truth their own, and qualified for baptism in their youth. May Jehovah bless you as you help your children reach this important milestone in their relationship with Jehovah.