Small Catechism - Holy Baptism

The correct answer is "holy spirit" or "Holy Spirit." In this passage, the phrase "bath of rebirth and renewal" suggests a cleansing or purifying process, which is often associated with the Holy Spirit in Christian theology. The capitalization of "Holy Spirit" indicates that it is referring to the divine entity in the Christian faith. Therefore, the correct answer is either "holy spirit" or "Holy Spirit."

The correct answer is "Age doesn't matter" because in the Christian faith, there is no specific age requirement for receiving baptism. Baptism is seen as a sacrament of initiation into the faith and is typically available to individuals of all ages, including infants, children, and adults. The decision to receive baptism is based on one's personal faith and commitment to Jesus, rather than a specific age requirement.

Baptism does not have a specific requirement for the location where it must be performed. It can be conducted in various settings, such as a baptismal font, a river, or even in a church. The choice of location may depend on the religious tradition or personal preference of the individuals involved. Therefore, the correct answer is "None of the above" as none of the options provided are universally applicable to all baptisms.

According to Jesus Christ, those who do not believe will be damned. This implies that belief in Him is necessary for salvation, regardless of whether or not someone is baptized.

The correct answer suggests that water in Baptism symbolizes the drowning of the old Adam in us through daily sorrow and repentance. This signifies a spiritual rebirth and the emergence of a new person who rises from death, symbolizing a new life in Christ.

Saint Paul said, "We are buried with Christ through Baptism into death." This statement is found in the New Testament in the book of Romans, chapter 6, verse 4. Saint Paul was right in making this statement because it aligns with the Christian belief that through baptism, believers are symbolically united with Christ's death and resurrection. This concept signifies the believer's spiritual transformation and new life in Christ.

The correct answer states that nothing can invalidate the promises of our Baptism. This means that regardless of any actions or choices we make, the promises made during Baptism remain valid. This aligns with the belief that Baptism is a sacrament and a permanent spiritual bond with God, and that God's promises are unchanging and everlasting. Therefore, rejecting Christ, the Father, the Holy Spirit, or God's Word may have consequences in terms of our relationship with God, but it does not invalidate the promises made during Baptism.

A valid Baptism requires water because it is the physical element used in the sacrament. Water symbolizes purification and cleansing, representing the washing away of sins. Additionally, God's Word is necessary as it accompanies the act of Baptism, usually in the form of prayers, blessings, and the recitation of scripture. God's Word is believed to have the power to sanctify and bless the water, making it a holy sacrament. Therefore, both water and God's Word are essential components for a valid Baptism.

In Baptism, we receive the same grace that Jesus Christ received. This means that through the sacrament of Baptism, we are granted the same divine favor and blessings that Jesus received during his own baptism. It is through this grace that we are cleansed of sin, incorporated into the Church, and become children of God. Baptism is not just a symbolic act, but a sacrament that imparts the grace of God, allowing us to share in the life and mission of Jesus Christ.