Lord’s Day 26
Q73. Then why does the Holy Spirit call baptism "the washing of rebirth" and "the washing away of sins"?
God has a good reason for these words. He wants to teach us that Christ's blood and Spirit wash away our sins just as water washes dirt from our bodies. But even more importantly, he wants to assure us — by this special sign from God — that our sins really are washed away, just as really as water washes our skin.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
1 Corinthians 6:11
“And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.”
Revelation 1:5
“And from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,”
Revelation 7:14
“And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.”
Acts 2:38
“Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.”
Romans 6:3–4
“Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”
Galatians 3:27
“For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
Why does the Bible use such strong language about baptism if the water itself does not save?
- 2
What is God trying to assure us of by giving us this sign?
- 3
When has a physical reminder helped you believe something was true?
Illustration
A wedding ring does not create a marriage, but it is called "a symbol of your love and commitment." The language is strong because the reality behind it is strong. God calls baptism "the washing of rebirth" because the forgiveness it points to is completely real and certain.
Application
When you hear someone being baptized, remember that God uses that moment to assure his people: your sins are washed away as surely as this water touches your skin. Thank God for giving such a clear sign.