Luther’s Small Catechism

by Dr. Martin Luther
Introduction The Ten Commandments The Creed The Lord’s Prayer Means of Grace The Sacrament of Baptism Confession The Sacrament of the Altar Daily Prayers Table of Duties Christian Questions with Their Answers Luther’s Preface
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From Luther’s Small Catechism © 2019 Concordia Publishing House, cph.org

Explanation of The Nature of Baptism

Explanation of The Nature of Baptism

The Sacrament of Holy Baptism

The Nature of Baptism

First

What is Baptism?

Baptism is not just plain water, but it is the water included in God's command and combined with God's word.

Which is that word of God?

Christ our Lord says in the last chapter of Matthew: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." (Matt. 28:19)

The Central Thought

Baptism is from God, since our Lord Jesus instituted Baptism (Matthew 28:19; see also LC IV 6), joining water to God's Word and His triune name. This is how God makes us His dear children and disciples. 

What does it mean to have a last name (family name)? When God places His name on us in Baptism, what does that mean?

Read Matthew 3:13--17. How are all three persons of the Trinity present and active in Jesus' Baptism?...

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