What Baptism Seals [2026.05.03 Sabbath School lesson in WCF 28.1—Hopewell 101]

Baptism is a sacrament of the New Testament, ordained by Jesus Christ, a not only for the solemn admission of the party baptized into the visible Church, but also to be unto him a sign and seal of the covenant of grace. (click here to DOWNLOAD mp3/pdf files of this lesson) Summary of the transcript of the audio: Baptism is a divine sacrament instituted by Jesus Christ Himself, serving as both a sign and seal of the covenant of grace and a visible mark of inclusion into the church. Rooted in Christ’s authority , it signifies and seals the believer’s union with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection, thereby guaranteeing the spiritual realities of regeneration, remission of sins, and newness of life. Baptism is a sovereign act of God, administered by Christ through His church, and it establishes the believer’s identity as a member of the one body of Christ, regardless of personal feelings or perceived spiritual inadequacy. The sacrament calls for a faithful response of repentance, faith, and obedience, reminding believers that their salvation is not self-achieved but sustained by Christ’s power and promise. As such, baptism is not only a past event but a living reality that shapes the Christian’s ongoing walk in holiness and dependence on Christ.