Baptism

Question 1

What is Baptism?

Answer 1

• the ritual used in most Christian denominations to signify the person’s initiation into the beliefs and practices of the Christian community.

Question 2

What does Baptism do?

Answer 2

Admits a candidate to Christianity.

Question 3

The Nature of God and the Trinity

Answer 3

• The whole practice revolves around the belief of the Trinity, “After Jesus’ resurrection he commanded his disciples to Baptise in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit” (Mt 28:19)
• The face that it invovles a 3 fold pouring - “in the name fo the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.”

Question 4

Salvation

Answer 4

• Baptism “is necessary for salvation” (Acts 8:13)
• Mark also said, “the one who believes and is baptised will be saved” (Mark 16:16)
• Through the cleansing of sinsand rejection of sin and Satan, demonstrating their believe through their faith in Jesus

Question 5

Revelation

Answer 5

Demonstrates a belief in Jesus’ commands as expressed in the scriptures as well as the reading within the ceremony of the ‘word of God’

Question 6

Life, Death and Resurrection of Jesus

Answer 6

• The practice includes death to sin and rising to new life especially in the whole immersion
• Symbolises very clearly Jesus’ resurrection after death

Question 7

Significance for Individual

Answer 7

• Shows that the individual wants to follow the example of Jesus and his own Baptism
• Brings you into the community of faith, introduces you into a way of life
• it is a public statement of belief, faith and a desire to be part of a Christian community and a commitment to living a Christian life
• They walk the same path and share the same practice that has been practiced among Christians since the earliest days of the Church
• Assurance they have received the forgiveness of the sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit
• Sense of belonging

Question 8

Significance for Community

Answer 8

• Brings the community together to celebrate that a new person has chosen to join them
• Therefore, the community becomes larger and stronger
• Provides an opportunity for each member to reflect upon their own faith and to renew their Baptismal promises
• In celebrating each rite of baptism they are perpetuating the ancient tradition and honouring the intention of Jesus and the early disciples
• The process of supporting a person and welcoming them into the community