In the plain form in which it is to be taught by the head of a family.
I. What is Baptism?
Ans. Baptism is not simply water, but it is the water comprehended in God's command, and connected with God's Word.
What is that Word of God?
Ans. It is that which our Lord Jesus Christ spoke, as it is recorded in the last chapter of Matthew, verse 19: "Go ye, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost."
II. What gifts or benefits does Baptism confer?
Ans. It works forgiveness of sins, delivers from death and the devil, and confers everlasting salvation on all who believe, as the Word and promise of God declare.
What are such words and promises of God?
Ans. Those which our Lord Jesus Christ spoke, as they are recorded in the last chapter of Mark, verse 16: "He that believeth and is baptized, shall be saved; but he that believeth not, shall be damned."
III. How can water produce such great effects?