Origins of the act of baptism
In Christianity, we know about the act of baptism through Saint John the Baptist. John the Baptist baptised believers with water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
When you get baptised, you are called to abstain from sin. You’re given the strength to increase your faith and to live life according to God’s virtues.
What do the elements of water and oil represent?
Baptism consists of two elements, water and oil.
As I mentioned in the beginning, baptism was introduced to us through Saint John the Baptist, who did not use any oil to anoint the believers.
The oil was introduced much later as a symbol of healing and was used to anoint prophets, kings, and queens.
The oil used in the church is called the oil of catechumens and is blessed by the priest before use, so it can be used to “draw” the symbol of faith, which is the cross, onto one’s forehead.
Our bodies are made primarily of 70% water, and water gives us life because a person can not survive without water for more than three days.
Therefore, water symbolises life.
The act of baptism itself is symbolic and commemorates the day Jesus Christ was baptised by Saint John the Baptist.
Why do parents baptise their children while they’re still babies?
In Christianity, one can not be given a formal first name unless they’re baptised.
Parents mainly baptise their children to give them a formal name and a religion.
What about monks and nuns who are given a formal name without being baptised again?
When a nun or monk has their name removed, it signifies them leaving their worldly identity behind.
They start a fresh life close to God by abandoning earthly possessions of their own accord. Therefore, they’re given a “new identity”.
Can a grown-up be baptised?
An adult can get baptised at any time during their lifetime. When they get baptised, it’s the same way as babies, but they wear their underwear to protect their dignity.
How many times can someone get baptised during their lifetime?
The answer is twice.
Once with water and the second time it’s through the Holy Spirit.
How can someone get baptised through the Holy Spirit?
When a person has established a personal connection with God by living a righteous life and by mimicking God’s virtues, they’re reborn and touched by the Holy Spirit.
Can I not be baptised but still believe in God?
No, because as I mentioned beforehand, the act of baptism is a gift to us from God brought to us by Saint John the Baptist.
Even Jesus Christ was baptised, and He is God, our Lord, and by doing so, we invite Him into our lives, and we get closer to His Holy Spirit.
How old do I need to be to get baptised?
There’s no age limit. Anyone and everyone is welcome to be sealed with God’s love and protection and become a Christian.
God wants everyone, regardless of race, colour, ethnicity, religion or sexual orientation, to believe in Him and get baptised in the name of The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit.
He wants everyone to repent and believe in Him. He wants everyone to enter His Kingdom, and He cares about the salvation of everyone’s soul.
His love for us is unconditional and undying.
So I have a different religion, and recently I started believing in Jesus Christ. Should I get baptised?
Yes, you should. Get in contact with a priest at a Christian church to arrange a date, and you will need a Godmother or Godfather to anoint you with oil.
The Godmother or Godfather represents Saint John the Baptist, which is why it’s essential for the ceremony.
Being baptised a Christian is a sacred ceremony between you and God.
At that moment, God gives you the strength to abstain from sins so you can get closer to Him. It’s a stepping stone towards salvation.
Final thoughts:
After we’re baptised with water, we should strive to be diligent with our Christian duties.
Therefore, we must abide by the Ten Commandments, be compassionate towards our fellow human beings and live a righteous life in fellowship with God.
Christening isn’t just another sacrament; it should be considered a badge of honour and a way of life.
Amen
By Growbigdreams 2023, © ®