Confirmation Class Lesson #18 February 1, 2012

Baptism is a Sacrament A Sacrament is a sacred act: 1. Instituted (started) by Christ 2. with visible elements connected with God’s Word 3. That gives forgiveness of sins, new life, and salvation

To Baptize means: 1. To apply ordinary water. 2. In any manner (washing, pouring, sprinkling, immersing). 3. In the name of the Triune God, with God’s command and promise. Matthew 28:19 Ephesians 5:26

For Whom Is Baptism Intended? 1. For all nations, regardless of age. 2. Even little children, including infants, should be baptized, because: 1. They are lost sinners who must be born again. 2. They, too, can believe by the power of the Holy Spirit. John 3:5-6 Matthew 18:6 Acts 2:38-39 Matthew 28:19 Luke 1:15, 41

3. Little Children: Baptism creates faith. Youth and adults: Baptism strengthens faith. Youth and adults: Baptism strengthens faith. Youth and adults 1. Instruction 2. Baptism Little Children 1. Baptism 2. Instruction B aptism

The Blessings of Baptism 1. Gives faith in Jesus 2. With faith there is: a. Regeneration b. Forgiveness of sins c. Salvation (rescue from sin’s guilt and power) 3. All of this is given by the Holy Spirit through the Word. Galatians 3:26-27 Titus 3:5 Acts 2:38 I Peter 3:21 Ephesians 5:26-27

How to Keep the Blessings of Baptism Romans 6:1-4 What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. Not “swimming with the fishes” for eternity!

1. Daily we need to take off the “Old Adam” (our sinful nature) and put on the “New Self” (our new life in Jesus). How to Keep the Blessings of Baptism Ephesians 4:22-24 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

2. We do this through daily spiritual breathing 1) Exhaling 1. Confess your sins and turn from it. 2. Lay it on Jesus as my Savior 2) Inhaling 1. Trust that you are forgiven 2. Thankfully begin to serve God and expect his blessings How to Keep the Blessings of Baptism I John 1:8-9 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

The Bible’s word for spiritual breathing is Repentance-sorrow over sin and trusting in Jesus for forgiveness.

Before rebirthat rebirthafter rebirth and growth In Heaven

Assignment for next week  Working with God’s Word  Multiple Choice  Word Study

For the Quiz next time  Review lesson 18  VIP  Luther’s Catechism Memory work:  Reception of Holy Communion