10 importance of baptism
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What is the importance of Christian baptism?
Answer
Christian baptism is one of two ordinances that Jesus instituted for the church. Just before His ascension, Jesus said, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:19–20). These instructions specify that the church is responsible to teach Jesus’ word, make disciples, and baptize those disciples. These things are to be done everywhere (“all nations”) until “the very end of the age.” So, if for no other reason, baptism has importance because Jesus commanded it.
Baptism was practiced before the founding of the church. The Jews of ancient times would baptize proselytes to signify the converts’ “cleansed” nature. John the Baptist used baptism to prepare the way of the Lord, requiring everyone, not just Gentiles, to be baptized because everyoneneeds repentance. However, John’s baptism, signifying repentance, is not
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What is the significance of baptism?
Have you ever thought about getting baptised but have too many questions still unanswered?
In this article we would love to help you understand a little bit more about this significant next step in your journey of following Jesus.
Why should I consider getting baptised?
Following Christ:
In order to understand the reason for being water baptised, it is important to carefully consider what the Bible says about it: Jesus himself was baptised. He was not a sinner, yet he humbled himself in obedience to identify with us and give us an example to follow.
At this time, Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptised by John in the Jordan. The moment he came out of the water, he saw the sky split open and God’s Spirit, looking like a dove, come down on him. Along with the Spirit, a voice: “You are my Son, chosen and marked by my love, pride of my life.” Mark 1:9 MSG
An act of obedience:
Water baptism is an act of faith and obedience to the commands of Christ.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name
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The Catholic Archdiocese
of Canberra and Goulburn
The birth of a child is cause for celebration not only within individual families, but also within the family of the Catholic Church. When children receive the sacrament of Baptism they are welcomed into this family and reborn as children of God.
There are several key symbols in the baptismal rite that tie this first sacrament to Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection. Prior to the Baptism, the priest uses a special oil – Oil of Catechumens – to anoint the baby and protect them from evil. During the Rite, consecrated water is poured upon the baby’s head as a symbol of purification and rebirth through Christ. Following the Baptism, the priest anoints the baby with Oil of Chrism, which symbolises the gift of the Holy Spirit. By performing the Rite, a priest liberates the child from sin, brings them into the light of God’s love and prepares them for eternal salvation in heaven.
During the ceremony, the Catholic parent/s make a commitment to raise their child according to the principles of the Church. They are also required to
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