Grade 4 CRE The Teachngs Of Jesuc Christ – Importance Of Baptism To Christians Notes
CRE Notes — The Teachings of Jesus Christ
Subtopic: Importance of Baptism to Christians (Age 9)
Simple, short and friendly for Sunday school in Kenya
What is Baptism?
Baptism is a special ceremony where a person is dipped in water or water is poured on them. It shows that they love Jesus and want to follow Him. It is done in church, at a river, or in a baptismal pool.
Look (✝️ + 💧): Jesus himself was baptized by John in the River Jordan. (Simple: someone goes into water as a sign of a new life with Jesus.)
Why is Baptism Important to Christians?
- Shows you belong to Jesus: When someone is baptized they show everyone they are on Jesus' team. (Belonging = being part of the church family.)
- Washes away old life: Baptism is like washing — it shows God makes the person new inside. (Like cleaning a dirty shirt.)
- Obedience to Jesus: Jesus told his followers to baptize people (Matthew 28:19). When we follow, we obey Jesus.
- Public promise: It is a way to tell others in church that you believe in Jesus.
- Receives God’s blessing: Many Christians believe the Holy Spirit comes to help and guide you after baptism.
Short Bible Words to Remember
Matthew 28:19 (short): "Make disciples and baptize them..." — Jesus asks us to baptize.
Mark 1:9-11 (short): Jesus was baptized by John in the River Jordan.
John 3:5 (short): "Born of water and Spirit" — shows the importance of water and God's Spirit.
How Baptism Happens in Kenya
In Kenya, people are baptized in different places — at a river, by the sea, or inside a church in a basin. Some children are baptized when they are babies and others are baptized when they choose to follow Jesus. Different churches do the ceremony slightly differently, but it always shows love for Jesus.
Fun Activities
- Memory verse: Learn Matthew 28:19 short line: "Baptize them..." Say it out loud with your class.
- Draw: Make a picture of Jesus being baptized in the River Jordan. Use blue for water and a bright cross.
- Role play: In class, pretend one child is John and another is Jesus (use safe water play or pretend). Talk about how they feel.
- Family talk: Ask parents how they were baptized. Share the story at dinner.
Short Questions (Try to answer!)
- What is baptism? ____________________________________________________
- Name one reason baptism is important. ________________________________
- Who baptized Jesus? __________________ (Hint: River Jordan)
Short Prayer
Dear Jesus, thank you for teaching us about baptism. Help us to follow you, to show others we belong to you and to live a new life. Amen.
Note: Different churches may explain baptism a little differently. These notes are for learning in CRE and Sunday school. If you want to be baptized, speak with your pastor or Sunday school teacher.