Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.
Synopsis
Baptism is the public enactment of what the gospel has done: death to the old life, burial of the past, resurrection to a new walk. It saves nothing by itself, but it is the appointed confession of a faith that has already received Christ.
Key points
- Baptism symbolises death, burial, and resurrection with Christ.
- It follows faith and repentance; it does not replace them.
- It is entrance into the visible body of Christ.
Key texts
- Romans 6:1-6
- Matthew 28:19-20
- Acts 2:38
- Colossians 2:12
- Comprehension
1. What does baptism represent?
- Scripture
2. Read Romans 6:4. What is the stated purpose of the burial?
- Scripture
3. Read Acts 2:38. What order does Peter give?
- Doctrinal Clarity
4. Does baptism itself wash away sin? Explain carefully.
- Contrast
5. Contrast baptism as a graduation with baptism as a commencement.
- Doctrinal Clarity
6. Why is the mode of immersion significant to the symbol?
- Application
7. If you are baptised, what did you understand yourself to be pledging?
- Application
8. How would you prepare a candidate for baptism in one conversation?