Where is Baptism in the Bible? (Aquinas 101)

The Thomistic Institute

4 Apr 202305:56

Summary

TLDRThis video explores the sacrament of baptism, emphasizing its role in addressing humanity's alienation from God, self, and others due to sin. It outlines the historical context of baptism, tracing its significance from John the Baptist's call to repentance, through Jesus's own baptism as an act of solidarity, to its institution as a means of salvation through His death and resurrection. The video highlights baptism's transformative power, inviting all to participate in this foundational Christian sacrament that symbolizes cleansing, new life, and entry into the community of believers.

Takeaways

😀 Baptism is the first sacrament, initiating a series of sacraments that extend Jesus Christ's salvation to us.
😀 It addresses the fundamental problem of alienation from God, others, and ourselves due to sin.
😀 Sin leads to self-destruction, causing both spiritual and physical death.
😀 Baptism symbolizes a physical washing that cleanses us and rejuvenates our spirits.
😀 Jesus underwent baptism not to signify his own conversion but to identify with humanity and sanctify the waters of baptism.
😀 The link between Christ’s Passion and baptism is illustrated by the blood and water that flowed from Jesus’s side during the crucifixion.
😀 St. Paul emphasizes that baptism connects us to Christ's death and resurrection, allowing us to walk in newness of life.
😀 Jesus commanded that all nations be baptized, highlighting the sacrament's universal significance.
😀 The importance of baptism is reiterated in the Acts of the Apostles, where St. Peter calls for repentance and baptism.
😀 Baptism continues to be a vital sacrament in the Catholic Church, embodying the call to turn away from sin and embrace new life in Christ.

Q & A

What is the significance of baptism in Christianity?
-Baptism is the first sacrament that initiates a believer's journey into a series of sacraments through which Jesus extends His salvation.
How does baptism address the problem of alienation?
-Baptism addresses alienation from God, self, and others, which arises from sin—both original sin and personal sins.
What consequences of sin are highlighted in the script?
-The consequences of sin include spiritual and physical death, as demonstrated by the fall of Adam and Eve, which disrupts the breath of life given by God.
How does baptism symbolize cleansing and renewal?
-Baptism is a physical washing that cleanses believers from sin and symbolizes spiritual rejuvenation, restoring the life lost due to sin.
What are the three stages of baptism established by Jesus?
-The three stages are: 1) John's baptism for repentance; 2) Jesus' baptism as a sign of solidarity with humanity; 3) The command to baptize all nations.
Why did Jesus receive baptism from John the Baptist?
-Jesus received baptism not for His own repentance, as He was without sin, but to sanctify the waters and show solidarity with sinners.
What is the connection between Christ's Passion and baptism?
-The link is found in the imagery of blood and water flowing from Jesus’ side during the crucifixion, symbolizing the salvific power of His sacrifice in baptism.
What does St. Paul say about baptism in Romans?
-St. Paul states that through baptism, believers are united with Christ in His death and resurrection, allowing them to walk in newness of life.
What command did Jesus give regarding baptism after His resurrection?
-Jesus commanded His apostles to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
How has the practice of baptism continued throughout church history?
-The practice of baptism has been maintained without interruption in the Catholic Church, beginning with the apostles and continuing to the present day.