We had two baptisms at church recently. Ours is an older congregation with not a huge number of families so baptisms are usually a bit of an event when they happen. But these were even more memorable than usual. They were baptisms of two school age children that had started coming to church with their neighbor over Christmas. The children got caught up in the Sunday school Christmas program and heard the story of Jesus for the first time during Sunday school lessons. After the Holy Spirit worked in their hearts, they both expressed the desire to be baptized. It was a great Sunday! I’m not sure I could find a clearer example of the impact of Christian education than two children being brought to the font after hearing about Jesus in Sunday school.
Water and the Word
Baptism is all about God’s grace and promises. After all, it’s not dependent on our works or how deserving we are. It is only about the love of God and the gifts he gives his people. At the font, God claims a child to be his own. He gives them forgiveness, the promise of resurrection and life forever with him and a new name. Their sinful self drowns in the waters of baptism, and they rise a child of God. The significance of God’s promise he makes to his child can sometimes be lost in the ordinary appearance of the water and the words. This is why we need to teach our students why their baptism is the most important day in their life!
Baptism Resource
If you are ready to explore the gift of baptism and God’s promise of grace and forgiveness in this sacrament with your students, then use this unique sketch notes lesson! It is designed for middle school to junior high students but could work for multiple levels. The lesson is great for teaching note taking skills as well as promoting class discussion and creativity. Put it in your lesson plans today!
If you are looking for this ready-to-use resource for your students, check it out in my store.
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3 Ideas for Amazing Middle School Religion Lessons – Teach by Faith
5 Awesome Bible Stories to Share With Kids – Teach by Faith
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Looking for more related articles from other authors? Check out:
What Do Lutherans Believe About Baptism?
Martin Luther on the New Birth from Water and the Spirit in Baptism
