Why do we have an Order of Baptism in our hymnal?
One of the great gifts God has given His Church is the gift of Baptism. Jesus instituted Baptism during His earthly ministry for our welfare. He placed the blessings of His death and resurrection in Baptism. The Order of Baptism in our worship reminds us of the blessings of Baptism, after which those blessings are given to the person being baptized that day.
What does the Order of Baptism mean to our worship?
While most of our services begin in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit in remembrance of our Baptism, this order is the actual occasion where God bestows His grace on someone in our worship. This is a great cause for joy and celebration because of what God does in Baptism.
What does the Bible say about the Order of Baptism?
Scripture says to baptize in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Most of the Biblical discussion on Baptism is examples of it being done, and passages discussing the benefits of Baptism, such as John 3:1-8, Acts 2:38, Romans 6:1-11, Titus 3:4-7, and 1 Peter 3:18-22.
Suggestions
You may want to show your children their Baptism certificate and candle. You may also want to sing the following hymns from Lutheran Service Book 590, 592, 593, 601.
Object Lesson
Read the order of Baptism from the hymnal with your family. Teach them about how God worked through the pastor to bring them the blessings of Baptism.
Prayer
Jesus, bless this little one as your blood adopted son. Through forgiveness soothe his/her cry with Your Baptism’s lullaby. Amen.