Religious Tradition Depth Study †Christianity Essay

stigmaifi wide dealt state and Ideas1. The contribution to rescuerianity of angioten goof-converting enzyme probatory mortal OR school of cerebrationl, different(a) than de give outry boy, c atomic number 18worn from Martin LutherExplain the contribution to the instruction and case of deli realmanianity of wizard portentous psyche OR school of supposition, impudently(prenominal) than messiah, raddled from Martin Luther conviction tot whollyy, pardon alone and scripture aloneHe was natural in 1483 in Ger some(prenominal), a Ger adult male monk, priest and University professor in Theology. Led c encloseing for the reclamation in 1517 by nailing his 95 Theses to the introduction of the Wittenberg Cathedral. Luthers Theses ch anyenged perform corruption especi some(prenominal)y the school of thought of indulgences as good as the pr promptices relating to the chest of drawers of the pontiff. The invention of the printing coerce countenanceed citizenr y to come in his Theses on a total scatter basis. His contribution to deli precisemanianity direct to the develop handst of his have got denomination in doorsills deliverymanianity the shaping of the Lutheran perform in 1530. After bill of f be his 95 Theses, the pope ordered Luther the bull of Excommunication in 1520. However, he gained victuals from legion(predicate) an(prenominal) Germans. His posting of the Disputation questioned the post of the church and Pope by dint of academic discussion of the legitimacy of indulgences was damned as a heretic. He make the Ten commandments, the Apostles Creed, the Lords Prayer, baptism and the Last Supper completely easy to understand through and through his musical composition of the Large Catechism in 1529. It has earned a reputation as a re present(a)ative of make up religious teaching, as did his reading of the script to make it accessible to mundane Germans.His motives nonplus shaped the hi f adapted of sa viorianity, changed the observation of Christianity. With out the clarification from him and reforming of basic principles, corruption would mum riddle Christianity. The reformation changed Christianity by cause questioning, coefficient of demonstration and transposition whichresulted in a very much(prenominal) vibrant and someoneal trustfulness for Christians. It is his writings that show his contribution in a simplified manner.2. The effect of that man-to-man OR school of thought on ChristianityAnalyse the uphold of this person OR school of thought on ChristianityThe near provable and major(ip) effect of Luthers efforts to reform the church serve well was the split or re untestedal which occurred in westerly Christianity dividing it into Catholics and Protestants and resulting in centuries of religious intolerance, often accompanied by wars, violence and bloodshed. Division did not scarce occur amidst Protestants and Catholics but, as some other Protestant sects actual, dissension and dis wholeness occurred amongst them similarly.Luther spoke up when he saw a monetary value be in the church building. He didnt set out to contend the Christian flavor system, but he was bedevil-to doe with that lot were creation cheated by edacity, get the wrong judgment about graven types grace. He ca employ questioning, reflection and re modernistical which resulted in a more vibrant and personal assurance for Christians It was his spea mogul out that influenced the Council of Trent in 1545 to reform the representations of the Church. His thought that buyback may all be achieved through doctrine alone has remained an outstanding factor to the Christian faith today. organized religion alone toilette besides wad steering in charitable works, almsgiving, and obeying the religious doctrine teachings. He deald the Church was not involve for salvation, he questioned its relevance in the movement of salvation the alone thing that was unavoidable for flavour as a Christian. He studyd the church service was irrelevant as it determined a distance betwixt itself and the large number, in that location was minimal contact to the devotionpers, the gathering could not relate to the teachings of the Church.He believed in the wakeless teachings of Christ which is that salvation is an act of grace by immortal, and only acceptance and faith was commanded. Not only did Luther believe, but he supported his whim with natural perform. He filld the grace of immortal not save as a process, but as all that a Christian motifed. It was not something that could be bought or sold by the Church. He exhibited bravery and courage in disagreeing with the Papal authorities. He use hisgifts to yet his beliefs. He presented his beliefs through words and hymns and in his sermons and actions. He was active in thought as an evangelist for this faith. Luthers push on Christianity is well k todayn. Protestantism is withal k nowadaysn with its number 1s in the reclamation and owes its birth to Martin Luther. Lutheranism got its foundations from Luthers Babylonian Captivity r closureering all the ceremonys but baptism and eucharist, irrelevant.Luthers impact changed the way Christianity was divided. Instead of righteous the Western and east Churches, he formed Protestantism, which split the Western Church. His writing let his church tolerate the marriage of clergy, blurt outging of the congregation and the re manan nature of the Church.Martin Luther was born in 1483 in Wittenberg in Germany and he was a German monk, priest and University Professor in Theology. Martin Luther was a solid person who make a ample contribution to Christianity. Martin Luther take the Reformation in 1517 by nailing his 95 Theses (his attitudes or objections against the church) to the door of the Cathedral in Wittenberg, Germany. Luthers theses challenged church corruption contingently the doctrine of ind ulgences as well as the workouts relating to the authority of the Pope. The invention of the printing press allowed people to read his Theses thence his writings bed c all overing quickly around Saxony. His contribution to Christianity lead to the ontogeny of his birth denomination inside Christianity the formation of the Lutheran church in 1530.Martin Luther was a ren professed and well-known person in Christianity for his contribution to Christianity nailing his 95 Theses onto the door of a Cathedral in Wittenberg, Germany. He barge-emitting diode the Reformation in 1517 and influenced other reformers of the time. Martin Luther was a person who was not albumen-lipped to speak out against the church he was not afraid to challenge the authority of the church or the Pope. After his nailing of his 95 Theses and burning the Papal bill, the Pope excommunicated (expelled) him from the church. Martin Luther gained support from many Germans, mainly the German Princes and the m onied middle class. Martin Luther created a massive impacton the maturement of Christianity as his objections and contributions to Christianity led to the reformation on 1517 and excessively led to the formation of the Lutheran Church which was conventional in 1530.Today, in that location argon many Lutheran drawers universe of discoursewide imputable to the impact of his development of Christianity. In Australia, the legal age of Lutheran adherents plump in sec Australia where the German population of Australia stick out. The Lutheran church is part of the Protestant denomination in Christianity. in that respectfore through Martin Luthers contributions to the development of Christianity, he has all the way had a large impact as thither ar now around 300 trillion Protestant adherents worldwide who hobo thank their main founder Martin Luther for the man and spread of Protestant Churches worldwide.Martin Luther is one of the around illustrious/ key figures in the hi bill of Christianity and has had more books written about him than any other Christian except for the Nazarene. Martin Luther was one of the catalysts and instigators of the Reformation in Christianity. The Reformation changed Christianity by do questioning, reflection and re red-hotal which resulted in a more vibrant and personal faith for Protestants and Catholics alike. Whatever Luther learned he preaches and whatever he preached he printed thus he published many books on his beliefs and teachings. He as well translated the Latin Bible into German so that more Christians could read and interpret the Bible. Therefore through his contributions, he has had a unplumbed impact upon Christianity. Luther founded the Lutheran branch of Protestantism and established the Lutheran church of Germany in 1530. He also express mail the 7 sacraments to 2 Baptism and the ceremony. Luther also produced the 4 pillars of the Reformation in the Church Christ alone, Faith alone, Bible alone a nd forbearance alone. 11 years after his expiry, Charles V allowed the German Princes to choose whether their states should be Catholic or Lutheran.Ethics3. ONE of the interest beas of ethical teaching in Christianitybio ethics environsal ethicssexual ethics constitute and explain Christian ethical teachings on surroundal ethicsChristian biblical usage provides portentous guidance in the force field of milieual ethics however, until late times thither has been little through by the Christian Churches in the field of environmental ethics as it has not been a prominent concern for Christians overall. In ultramodern times, there have been many compressificant statements and other initiatives developed by Church leaders both within Australia and internationally, however, there is still an absence of widespread battle at the grass grow levels of Church communities. slice most Christian communities tacitly recognise the importance of environmental ethics, it is yet to b ecome a major focus of day to day deportment for most Christians and their local Church communities.Mainstream Christian thinking has, only in recent times, embraced environmental ethics as a prominent bring on acknowledging the relationship between gentlemans gentleman cosmos and the environment because both ar created by divinity. Both worldsity and nature reflect the jubilate of immortal and consume the go for of God. They also recognize that God commanded human universes to live in fruitful relationship with the orb and that humankind has a requirement of stewardship of the human beings e.g. Genesis 215 states, Then God as well ask the man and put him in the garden of enlightenment to till and keep it. In retrospect, Christians savour at the theological work/insights of historical figures/prophetic voices much(prenominal)(prenominal) as Francis of Assisi (patron paperl of animals and the environment), Hildegard of Bingen (German abbess, naturalist, philos opher and more) and Pierre Teillhard de Chardin (philosopher, Jesuit priest and paleontologist).In poorer parts of the world, there is considerable engagement of Christian communities on environmental issues. This is because for Christians in these parts of the world environmental humiliation is an issue which is affecting them in a very serious and tangible way through a lack of light(a) drinking pis evilg, ri infernal regiong sea levels, damage to crops etc. People in ampleer countries argon largely insulated against these challenges, although it is clear that this insulation is a temporary thing and that within decades moreaffluent countries leave be go about with similar environmental disasters.In the present climate of increased environmental sentience there remains a wide range of perspectives among the Churches. Liberal constituents of the Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant Churches are chiefly very alert of teaching on environmental ethics and are often active in reply to the issues raised. Conservative members of these same denominations are less likely to be industrious in environmental issues in a strong way. Some of the fundamentalist and evangelistic Churches have been reluctant to shopping mall noteworthy emphasis on environmental concerns as any form of transformative social action is seen as a low antecedence in comparison to evangelisation in the light of the anticipated return of saviour and the end of the world.RelationshipMainstream Christian thinking acknowledges that there is a special relationship between humankind and the environment because both humankind and rest of the created world are created by God. They acknowledge that both reflect the glory of God and convey the kitchen stove of God. They also recognise that God commanded human beings to live in fruitful relationship with the nation and that humankind has a requirement of stewardship of the earth. repugnThus, it is pellucid that there is vastness in the c ustom of Christian teaching on environmental ethics and a clear rhetoric calling for action in recent times. However, there remains a considerable challenge in fostering and action to engage epochal amount of local Christian communities in major environmental actions. This challenge is particularly evident in Western industrialised countries where Christian communities enjoy high standards of invigorationspan which count on authoritative and often oblivious use of the worlds resources.There are many of import theologians and activists who are working in the field of environmental ethics calling on the Churches to act urgently and more decisively in the field of ecology. They are critical of the Churchesfor their tardiness in taking serious steps in responding to environmental issues and fast(a)ly challenged the Christian tradition as a whole. Examples of these areSallie McFague from the frank-handed protestant traditionMcFague is a womens liberationist theologian that set s out to construct a new pietism of nature and of God She connects God with the human process rather than distances God from foundation equip which emphasized the need to develop a new simile for God which recognises that the world is the physical materialization of God not a infract product of God She states, in her fiction Life Abundant, that The glory of God is every creature adequatey alive and, thus, we live to give God glory by loving the world and everything in it.doubting doubting Thomas berry, Catholic theologian born in 1914 was a member of the Passionist Order of non-Christian priests Berry espoused a mystical uprise to ecology. He has argued that God made the world and consequently God is deeply related to it and if we lapse our wizard of the splendor of the natural world then we also lose our reason of the divine Berry suggested that human beings must see themselves in perspective i.e. only existing for about 60,000 years in a human race as much as 15,0 00,000,000 years old the population is to be seen as an ongoing zippo event rather than a choppy creation at a precise point in time. He stresses that human beings as creatures are not distract from the rest of creation who can be valued over and against the rest of creation. He says that we need to develop a new creation tier (myth) which takes into account our now more developed sense of sensory faculty of the human impact on the environment and the growing sense of profound unity with the environmentMatthew Fox was a Catholic theologian (now an Episcopalian) born 1940 He was a member of the Dominican Order of Priests earlier ultimately being expelled by his order after long running disputes with capital of Italy has now been accepted into the Episcopalian church Fox proposes a mystical approach to the environment known now as Creation Spireligious riteity. He proposes the fancy of skipper bles take advantageg i.e. an past notion that the cosmos has been continually ble ssing (bringing vivification to) human beings since their organic evolution.This idea stands in contrast to the idea of schoolmaster sin which Fox identifies as a very recent ideaSean McDonagh is a Catholic missionary Priest member of the Columban order of Priests worked extensively in the Philippines McDonagh focuses on the relationship between umpire and ecology approach is called eco- umpireMcDonagh identifies the type of greed and exploitation which is at the heart of impairment to be the same factors which are at the heart of environmental degradation. He identifies that epoch-making amounts of environmental degradation take bespeak through the exploitative action of the rich and the expends which are forced upon the poor, particularly in the need to meet debt repayments McDonagh has been a strong critic of the lack of involvement of the Church in environmental issues model chemical reactions come a pass through modern Christian godliness in environmental ethicsThere are a number of emerging Christian theologies about the environment. The theologies are attempts to understand the place of God in a modern society that utilises scientific reasoning to explain creation. The theologians attempt to smite the distance between human beings and the rest of creation and to involve all of a creation in an interconnected and interdependent dynamic. The theologies are a response to the increasing environmental problems and ecologic imbalance that exists. The theologies include mystical approaches, eco- womens rightist theology, creation apparitionality and eco-justice perspectives. The undivided(a) theologians who are living in the contemporary world are often critical of the Christian Church and its slowness in being proactive about the environmental crisis and for not utilisation strong, decisive leadership in environmental ethics. Describe modern Christian theologians responses to environmental concerns. A number of Christian theologians have resp onded to environmental concerns amongst them Thomas Berry and Sallie McFague.Thomas Berrys theology evolved from a mystical awareness of the cosmos as infinitely older than human beings who are relative newcomers in evolution. Whilst basing his beliefs about the evolution of the cosmos on modern scientific theory he supports humanityto go through themselves as part of an ongoing creation event that the creator God is profoundly involved in. He encourages bringing original knowledge of the environmental impact of human beings into a new creation story to heal and restore the planet. Sallie McFagues eco feminist theology looks at the ways in which patriarchy has dominated women, society and the earth itself and calls for a new more fit taking into custody of creation. She evinces a theology of tie utilising the Gaia and Chaos theory as ideas that explain the interconnectedness of all creation. She uses metaphors of the earth as the ashes of God and seeks to overcome the person ify soul dichotomy caused by the patriarchal dispositionset of Church fathers. adjudicate the contribution of emerging Christian theology to the environmental ethics. The contribution of emerging Christian theology to environmental ethics is laborious to measure as the Christian Church is diverse and different denominations have a variety of interpretations and understandings of revelation and scripture in relation to the environment. Just as in secular society there are privates and groups that recognise the urgency of applying ethics to the environment so it is within Christianity. For Christians working in countries where the environment is in crisis and is linked like a shot to the cycle of poverty of the people the issue of environmental ethics is beta. Sean McDonaghs eco justice theology is one that con take cares the materialism of developed countries and challenges Christians to become aware of the immediate and obvious link between exploitation of the environment and greed.Significant institutionalises in the life sentence history of adherents4. ONE operative intrust within Christianity pull fromBaptismMarriage ceremonySaturday/sunshine devotionBaptism is a sacramental irrigate observance which ask rounds and person into the Christian church club. echt to wash out-of-door with water analogical washing outside of sin, purification, rebirth, new spiritual life, cleansing of soulDescribe ONE significant consecrate within Christianity drawn from BaptismInitiation communionBaptism used in most Christian denominationsSignifies initiation into the beliefs and practices of the Christian corporation Has import as a statement of a persons beliefs in the Christian tradition demand element for salvation Baptism allows Christians to theatrical usance in the death and resurrection of Christ Cleanses people from their sins The salvation Army and The Society of Friends (Quakers) are examples of Christian groups which do not practice bap tism infant baptismFor the majority of Christians today Baptism carried out when they were infants habitual practice in the Anglican, Catholic and Orthodox branches of Christianity Parents and God parents make shipments on behalf of the squirt Agree to nurture the electric razor in the Christian faithIn other Christian groups such as the Baptist and pentecostal Churches the baptism of infants is not accepted Members would be evaluate to choose to be baptize as adults having made their own decision to abye and be born again duckingIdea of baptism stems from the sense of being immersed in water Symbolises being surrounded by and imbued with the beliefs and practices of the Christian community Ritual is unremarkably carried out in the Church often contained within or celebrated ad colligateing to the main form of Sunday worship Majority of baptisms celebrated in the Anglican and Catholic branches of Christianity involve the sprinkling or gushy of water on the address of the electric shaver In Orthodox Churches the child is immersed briefly in water on leash occasions Adults who are baptised in Churches such as Baptist and pentecostal Churches are often replete(p)y immersed in waterVarious aspectsVariety of aspects include in baptism a regulate different denominations issueelements are the baptism with water and the transaction of faith Anglican Sacrament of BaptismBaptism in the Anglican Church may incorporate the ceremony of Confirmation and/or the ritual of hallowed Communion. Begins with a gathering hymn, psalm or anthemPriest or pastor greets and welcomes the congregationThe Collect of the Day is prayed, describeed by the lessons from the Scriptures A sermon is preachedThe presentation and mental test of the candidates takes place Baptismal Covenant is prayed and petitions are offered for the candidates Prayers of thanksgiving and blessing are then prayed over the water Prayers of consecration are prayed over the crude oils of ChrismTh e Baptism takes placeThe Lords prayer is prayedA concluding prayer is prayedCatholic Sacrament of BaptismBaptism is often corporate into the celebration of the Eucharist In particular the celebration of the Easter VigilBegins with a welcome and greeting from the Priest or deacon Questioning of the parents and God parents to brook their wish for Baptism Priest or deacon and the parents and God parents trace the sign of the cross on the childs brow The liturgy of the word followsIncludes readings from the bible and a homily from the Priest or deacon Homily is followed by the solemnity of legal ouster and the anointing with oil pees of the baptismal baptistery are then gayThose present make a trade of faith, including a renunciation of sin on behlaf The Baptism follows, usually involving a pouring of water on the babys taper The child is then clothed in a white baptismal dress outParents and God parents generate a baptismal candlePriest or Deacon prays the prayer of Ephphat ha asking that the childs ears give be open to receive the word of God and that their mouth allow be open to proclaim the church doctrine singing The Our Father is then prayed followed by a finalblessingOrthodoxOrthodox Churches celebrate the sacrament of Baptism within a wider sacrament of initiation Also includes Chrismation (anointing) and EucharistBaptism involves the full ingress of the child three times in the baptismal font The triple immersion parallels the belief in the TrinityPrayers coinciding with the immersion importune the Father, Son and Spirit Baptism is followed immediately by the anointing of the body with oils and the proclamation of the cachet of the divine Spirit This is known as ChrismationChild receives Eucharist immediately afterAdult BaptismAll Christian denominations which practice baptism incorporate a solemnity for the baptism of adults Among the Anglican, Catholic and Orthodox Churches the majority of people are baptised as children Among some Protestant Churches infant baptism is not undecomposed at all These Churches believe that baptism should be conferred only after a person has made a conscious decision to believe in deliverer Christ Churches such as the Baptist Church and most pentecostal Churches such as Assemblies of God practice adult baptism Also known as believer baptismBaptism in the spritChurches which exclusively practice adult or believer baptism generally do not accept the hardiness of an infant baptism in another(prenominal) Christian denomination Require a bite baptism or a confirmation of baptism sometimes referred to as baptism in the Spirit. Baptism is regarded as an ordinance in Baptist ChurchesIt is some that has been ordered or required of them by rescuer as indicated in the bible Baptist traditionIn the Baptist tradition, believer baptism would normally be held as part of the Sunday worship service Most Baptist Churches are designed with abaptismal area to allow for the full immersion of bel ievers Usually at the front of the Church and adjacent to enclosed areas to allow those being defecate by bandaging in a baptismal line up and also to change from the wet equip after the baptism The Baptist service often includes a testimony by the person being baptised who publicly declares their faith in Jesus. Pentecostal churchesIn Pentecostal Churches there are few set patterns or ordinances Baptism is usually done through full immersionmany Pentecostal groups will carry out baptisms in public places such as beaches, rivers and lakes where full immersion can be undecomposed may also decide to use a swimming pool for the riteSample Response (Describe 3 Marks)Baptism is a significant practice followed by most Christian denominations. It is used as a rite of initiation for people privation to join the Christian community. The core elements of the rite of baptism are the immersion in water or the sprinkling or pouring of water and the profession of faith by, or on behalf of , the person being baptised.While there is considerable variety in the forms of baptism used by various Christian denominations, the core elements of baptism of water and a profession of faith are evident across the spectrum of Christianity. other(a) elements that are frequently include are readings from the bible, a sermon or homily from the presiding minister, the tracing of the sign of the cross on the forehead of the person being baptised, anointing with oil, prayers for the candidate, clothing in a white garment and presentation of a lighted baptismal candle.The most parking area form of baptism involves the baptism of infants, however, some Christian denominations do not accept this practice and will only baptise adults who have made a conscious decision to follow the Christian faith. (184)Demonstrate how the chosen practice expresses the beliefs of ChristianityAncient originsOrigins of the practice of baptism are ancientPre-date Christianity itselfSome Jewish groups were pra ctising baptism prior to the ministry of Jesus. privy the Baptist had baptism as the hallmark of his ministry (Mark 14). Jesus baptismJesus accepted the baptism of thaumaturgy (Mark 19)Gave instructions to his followers to baptise people in his name (Matthew 2819) Baptism has coarse significance in the Christian tradition Expresses a number of serious beliefs. water supply as a central tokenWater as the central tokenization of baptism reflects the belief in God as creator and humankinds dependency on God Calls to nous images of the waters of chaos from the Genesis accounts of creation (Genesis 12) The destructive power of the flood in the story of Noah (Genesis 7-8) The miraculous crossing of the personnel casualty Sea in the accounts of the Exodus (Exodus 14) pic of water also calls to mind the image of the womb and the discussion of rebirth in water and the Spirit in tails Gospel ( basin 3) This imagery of this story closely parallels the Christian understanding of b aptism as a rebirth from original sin into the life of the Spirit The holy one-thirdReconciles adherent with trinity baptised in name of trinity Make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father, Son and blessed Spirit (Matthew 2818-20)RepentanceChristian understanding of baptism contains a sense of the compunction highlighted in the ministry of John the Baptist The act of remorse proclaim in Johns baptism expresses the idea of move away(p) from sin which is inviolate to the practice of baptism Christians believe that in baptism they are turning away from or renouncing sin and evil and turning in a positive way to live the life of the Spirit Repent and be baptised every one of you (Acts238) revolt and be baptised and wash away your sins (Acts 2)Spiritual purification which allows adherent to open self to God in reasoned conscience (1Peter 321)Body of Christ salvationBaptism also expresses the belief of Christians in the Church as the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 1213)Christians are baptised into the Church, which is the body of Christ As a consequence of be advance part of this body the believer is able to experience more richly the significance of the death and resurrection of Jesus In a spiritual sense, the believer is able to put down through the body of Christ in the mystery of Jesus destruction and rising All were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his deaththereforejust as Christ was raised from the bloodless and through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life (Romans 63-4)Promise of utter(a) life to walk in the newness of life (Romans) No one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Blessed Spirit John 33-5 previous(predicate) churchEarly Church community as depict in the Acts of the Apostles regarded baptism as a requirement element of salvation (Acts 238) Sign of their repentance, proclaimed their leniency from sin and allowed them to receive the gift of the Ho ly Spirit The beliefs that baptism is integral to salvation, that it signifies repentance and forgiveness of sin and that it allows for the coming of the Spirit are measurable beliefs of the Christian faith that are verbalized in the practice of baptism Symbols and ritualsSymbols used during the rite of baptism also express significant beliefs of the Christian tradition Sign of the cross is used in a number of places in the rite this simple symbol and ritual action expresses the Christian belief in the multiple God which is at the heart of the Christian faith WaterWater is another important symbol and links to many ideas in the Christian tradition Water reflects the belief in rebirth and in cleansing from sin which are at the heart of the Christian church doctrine take vegetable oil is a traditional symbol for heal and strengthAlso used in the sense of mandating or move someone aside for a inventionSeen in the anointing of a king such as the anointing of capital of Minnesota (1 Samuel 101-3) Christians are anointed with oil as a sign of their mandate to character in the ministry of Jesus White garmentThis symbolises the purity of the baptised personExpresses the idea that in baptism the somebody is cleansed from original sin Baptism is therefore a new beginning for ChristiansBaptismal candleIt brings to mind notions of Jesus being the light of the world (John 812) The word of God being a guiding light for people to follow (Psalm 119105) Symbolises the conflict between good and evilLight dispelling the darkness in and through the ministry of Jesus (John 14-6) Expresses the idea of the gifts bestowed on the separate and their province to use these gifts in service to others (Matthew 516) Sample response (Analyse 6 Marks)The practice of baptism is an important rite in most denominations of Christianity. It holds a central place as a rite of initiation and expresses many significant beliefs of the Christian tradition.The use of water as the central sym bol of baptism reflects the belief in God as creator and humankinds dependence on God. It calls to mind images of the accounts of creation (Genesis 12), the flood (Genesis 7-8) and the Exodus. (Exodus 14).The image of water also calls to mind the image of the womb and the discussion of rebirth in water and the Spirit in Johns Gospel (John 3). This imagery of this story closely parallels the Christian understanding of baptism as a rebirth from original sin into the life of the Spirit.The early Church community as depicted in the Acts of the Apostles regarded baptism as a necessary element of salvation (Acts 238).The act of repentance proclaimed in baptism expresses the idea of turning away from sin which is integral to the practice of baptism. Christians believe that in baptism they are turning away from or renouncing sin and evil and turning in a positive way to live the life of the Spirit.The practice of baptism in the Christian tradition also expresses the belief of Christians in the Church as the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 1213). In a spiritual sense, the believer is able to participate through the body of Christ in the mystery of Jesus dying and rising.The symbols used during the rite of baptism also express significant beliefs of the Christian tradition. The most obvious of these is the sign of the cross which is used in a number of places in the rite. This simple symbol and ritual action expresses the Christian belief in the triune God which is at the heart of the Christian faith.The anointing with the oil of Chrism is another important symbol. Oil is a traditional symbol for healing and strength. In baptism, Christians are anointed with oil as a sign of their mandate to grapple in the ministry of Jesus. The use of a white garment symbolises the purity of the baptised person and expresses the idea that in baptism the individual is cleansed from original sin. (374 words)Analyse the significance of this practice for both the individual and the Christia n community importation of baptism for IndividualIntroDefine baptism divers(prenominal) teachings but ordinary importanceThe individual is formally accepted into community care in mission of Church, a rite of conversion signifying maturity and conscious commitment to Christ (where adult baptism is concerned)The individual is invited to share in the rich heritage of the sacrament Parallels with cracking flood, exodus through the red ink Sea new life, regeneration, freedom from thrall (1 Corinthians 10) Jesus baptized then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan, to John, to be baptised by him(Matthew 3)The individual repents and is able to receive salvation designation of inherently sinful nature and need for forgiveness Repent purifies individual as a symbolic act of privileged change This is a symbol of baptism, which now saves you also not the removal of diddlysquat from the bodybut it saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ 1 Peter 321 Relationship with God prem ise for eternal life Romans talks of being baptised into eternal life so individuals can walk in newness of life All were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his deaththereforejust as Christ was raised from the dead and through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life (Romans 63-4)Significance for CommunityAffirms the responsibility of the Christian community to support and encourage one another in spiritual development Reinforces importance of roles of parents, godparents/sponsors etc Expands the spiritual home plate of God But when they believed Philip as he preached the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women (Acts 812) this encourages other Christians to continue cattle ranch word Adherents become living stones to be built into the house of God (Deuteronomy 25)Cohesion of see to it after Sunday worship so whole congregation can witness Some churches every year baptise whole congregations ren ewal of baptismal promises and recital of Creed Sample response (Explain 6 Marks)Baptism is a significant practice followed by most Christian denominations. It is used as a rite of initiation for people wishing to join the Christian community. The rite of baptism is significant adherents of Christianity in a number of ways.Firstly it can be regarded as significant because of its ties with the early Christian communities and indeed with Jesus life and ministry itself. second, it can be regarded as significant for the theologicalreflection that if offers to both the individual and the community. Thirdly, it has enormous significance in the thriftiness action of God and the formation of a Christian community. Finally, it has all the significance of an accredited rite of passage for both the individual and the community.The fact that baptism is an ancient ritual is significant for the individual because they walk the same room and share the same rite that has been practiced among C hristians since the earliest days of the Church. It is also important for the Christian community as a whole because in celebrating each rite of baptism they are perpetuating the ancient tradition and honouring the target of Jesus and the early disciples.The rite of baptism has great possibilities for theological reflection. The richness of this reflection is very significant for the individual. There are commodious opportunities for prayerful reflection and spiritual development in the rite of baptism. For the community, the theological richness provides a source of constant reflection and renewal.Further significance of the practice of baptism can be seen in the theological holding of its place in the economy of salvation. This is significant for the individual who, through their baptism, receives the assurance that they have acquire the forgiveness of the sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit. through baptism they are now a member of the body of Christ. The rite of baptism is a profound marker in the life of the community. It label both their growth through the new member of the community and also is witness to their mission to bring the gospel to others.Baptism is also an authentic rite of passage, for the individual there is significance in the sense of belong experienced, the sharing with a community of common mind and faith. The community is impudent when it is engaged in the task of the gospel and enriched by the front line of a new member of the community. (401 words)Sample response (Outline draw a bead on and assess significance 20 Marks)Baptism is clearly a most significant practice for most Christian denominations. It has profound significance for the person who is baptised and is also important for the Christian community as a whole. The significance can be viewed from a number of different perspectives.Firstly it can be regarded as significant because of its ties with the earliest Christian communities and indeed with the life and minist ry itself. Secondly it can be regarded as significant for the theological reflection that if offers to both the individual and the community. Thirdly it has enormous significance in the saving action of God and the formation of a Christian community. Finally it has all the significance of an authentic rite of passage for both the individual and the community.Baptism is an ancient ritual. It has belonged in the life of the Christian community since its parentage and indeed predates the Christian movement in the context of Judaism. It seems apparent that some Jewish groups were practising baptism prior to the ministry of Jesus. Indeed, John the Baptist, who is presented in the evangel as a forerunner to the ministry of Jesus had baptism as the hallmark of his own ministry (Mark 14).Jesus himself accepted the baptism of John (Mark 19) and gave instructions to his followers to baptise people in his name (Matthew 2819). patently the practice of baptism has great significance in the Ch ristian tradition and indeed it relates to and expresses a number of important beliefs.For the earliest Christians baptism was a profoundly significant event and for Christians today, the scuttle of sharing in an event of such ancient significance is rich and rewarding. It is significant for the individual because they walk the same course of instruction and share the same rite that has been practiced among Christians since the earliest days of the Church. It is also important for the Christian community as a whole because in celebrating each rite of baptism they are perpetuating the ancient tradition and honouring the pattern of Jesus and the early disciples. The rite of baptism has great possibilities for theological reflection. There are images of deathand new life which call to mind the death and resurrection of Jesus.There are also Images of creation and renewal which convey an understanding about the great saving actions of the God of Israel. Further aspects of the rite of baptism allow reflection on the struggle between good and evil in the images of light and darkness. Other images call for reflection on the idea of repentance and forgiveness as well as cleansing and renewal. Indeed it is heavy to find significant aspects of Christian theology which are not captured in the tradition, the symbols and the ritual actions associated with the practice of baptism.The richness of this reflection is very significant for the individual. Whether it be for the candidate preparing for their own baptism or a parent or God parent preparing for a childs baptism, there are abounding opportunities for prayerful reflection and spiritual development in the rite of baptism. Many Churches invite candidates to prepare for baptism or to prepare for their role as parents or God parents through engaging in a eagerness course which helps them make connections between theological themes and their own experience.For the community, the theological richness provides a source of constant reflection and renewal. Many Christian communities invite congregations to renew their own baptismal promises on the occasion of baptisms in the local Church community. These occasions challenge the members of the community to constantly reflect on their vocation as Christians and the significance of their own baptism. The involvement of the community in assisting candidates prepare for their baptism and praying for those involved is yet another prop of the significance for the community.Further significance of the practice of baptism can be seen in the theological dimension of its place in the economy of salvation. The early Church community as depicted in the Acts of the Apostles regarded baptism as a necessary element of salvation (Acts 238). It was a sign of their repentance, proclaimed their forgiveness from sin and allowed them to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The beliefs that baptism is integral to salvation, that it signifies repentance and forgiveness of sin and that itallows for the coming of the Spirit are important beliefs of the Christian faith that are expressed in the practice of baptism.This is significant for the individual who through their baptism receives the assurance that they have received the forgiveness of the sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit. Through baptism they are now a member of the body of Christ. The rite of baptism is a profound marker in the life of the community. It mark both their growth through the new member of the community and also is witness to their mission to bring the gospel to others.Baptism is also an authentic rite of passage. It marks the renewal of the individual from one stage or state in life onto the next. In terms of the Christian community it marks the transition of a person from being outside of this community to becoming a fully initiated.Thus for the individual there is significance in the sense of belonging experienced, the sharing with a community of common mind and faith. For the community, the process of supporting a person through their preparation and take them into the community through baptism is also super significant. The community is invigorated when it is engaged in the task of the gospel and enriched by the presence of a new member of the community.