“Unless You Change and Become Like Little Children” A Special Baby Dedication Sabbath

In the Seventh-day Adventist Church, a baby dedication program is a special worship service where parents publicly present their child to God and commit themselves to raising the child according to biblical principles. It is also a moment where the church family promises to support, encourage, and pray for both the child and the parents throughout their spiritual journey.

Unlike baptism, baby dedication does not symbolize salvation or church membership for the child. In the Adventist Church, baptism is a personal decision made later in life when someone is old enough to understand and choose to follow Jesus Christ for themselves. Baby dedication is therefore more about commitment, thanksgiving, and prayer.

The practice is inspired by examples found in the Bible. Hannah dedicated Samuel to God (1 Samuel 1:27–28), and Mary and Joseph presented baby Jesus at the temple (Luke 2:22). During the dedication service, the pastor usually shares a short message for the parents and congregation, emphasizing the importance of spiritual education, godly example, and nurturing the child with love and faith. A special prayer is then offered for God’s protection, wisdom, and blessing upon the child.

The sermon title, “Unless You Change and Become Like Little Children,” connected beautifully with the occasion because Jesus used children as an example of humility, trust, sincerity, and dependence on God. Pastor Yoon also reflected on the childhood of Jesus through Luke 2:52:

“And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”

This verse reminds parents that raising a child is not only about physical growth, but also spiritual, emotional, and moral development. In the Adventist understanding, children are encouraged to grow balanced lives ,growing in wisdom, character, relationships, and faith in God.

A baby dedication service is therefore both joyful and solemn: joyful because it celebrates the gift of life, and solemn because it reminds parents and the church of their responsibility to guide the child toward Christ.