Here are some popular Bible verse options that you could consider including on a baptism card:
**For infants and young children:**
1. "Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.'" (Mark 10:14)
2. "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go out and bear fruit." (John 15:16)
3. "The angel said to her [Mary], 'Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God.'" (Luke 1:30)
**For older children and youth:**
1. "Come, follow me,' Jesus said, 'and I will make you fishers of men.' At once they left their nets and followed him." (Matthew 4:19-20)
2. "The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and whoever takes hold of them [God's ways] will be blessed." (Proverbs 3:18)
3. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)
**General baptism verses:**
1. "Then Jesus came to them and said, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.'" (Matthew 28:18)
2. "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." (Matthew 28:19)
3. "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of God's grace that is made available to us in Christ Jesus." (Ephesians 1:7-8)
**Verses about new life and spiritual growth:**
1. "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." (John 10:10)
2. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation: old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new." (2 Corinthians 5:17)
3. "And we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28)
Remember to choose a verse that is meaningful to the parents and the child being baptized. You could also consider adding a personal message or congratulatory note to make the card even more special.
Here are some key Bible verses related to baptism and salvation:
**Baptism**
* "He went up from there to the mountain and called to him those who would listen: 'Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the place of his glory.'" (Isaiah 64:9) - This verse is often seen as a foreshadowing of baptism.
* "Now when all the people came to be baptized, Jesus was baptized along with them. And as he was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove." (Matthew 3:13-16) - This passage describes John's baptism of Jesus.
* "Then Peter replied, 'So if anyone joins you in following Jesus, what will happen? The rest of humanity will join them because of your continuous testimony about them.'" (Acts 5:32-33) - This verse highlights the importance of baptismal testimonies.
* "Or don't you know that all who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death?" (Romans 6:3) - Paul emphasizes the significance of baptism in this passage.
* "We were therefore buried with him through baptism, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life." (Romans 6:4) - This verse highlights the connection between baptism and spiritual rebirth.
**Salvation**
* "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16) - This is a well-known verse about salvation through faith in Jesus.
* "But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. The righteous will live by faith." (Romans 10:5) - Paul emphasizes that salvation comes through faith alone.
* "And you also were included when God spared the people of Israel and not destroy them—of whom you are a member—and also because the people were unclean, God purified them for two days. In that way, he brought their fears to an end. When the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law." (Galatians 4:4-5) - This passage highlights Jesus as the Savior.
* "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12) - Peter emphasizes that salvation comes through faith in Jesus' name.
**Baptism and Salvation**
* "Or don't you know that all who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? Therefore, we have been buried with him through baptism into death so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life." (Romans 6:3-4) - This passage highlights the connection between baptism and spiritual rebirth.
* "You were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God." (1 Corinthians 6:11) - Paul emphasizes the cleansing and justification that come through baptism.
* "And now what are we waiting for? If the Lord is willing, we will follow him again!" (Matthew 16:24-25) - This passage highlights the decision to follow Jesus in faith, which is often seen as a precursor to salvation and baptism.
Remember, these verses are just a few examples of the many biblical passages that relate to baptism and salvation.
Here are some Bible verses that relate to child baptism:
**Scriptural basis for infant baptism**
1. **Acts 2:38-39**: Peter preaches the gospel at Pentecost and says, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sins." This is often seen as a model for baptizing children, just like adults.
2. **Matthew 28:19**: Jesus commands his disciples to "make disciples of all nations" and baptize them "in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit."
3. **Luke 18:15-17**: Jesus blesses and takes little children in his arms, saying, "Whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it." This passage is often seen as an illustration of the innocence and trust that children have in God.
**Baptismal promises**
1. **Ephesians 2:8-9**: "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, not as a result of works, so that no one should boast."
2. **Colossians 2:12-13**: "And He gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma, but for those who are many, although foolish to the world, about the wisdom of God they became wise, to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks. Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God."
3. **Galatians 3:26-28**: "So then, you are no longer under a guardian entrusted with your care until Christ comes—the greatest of all. You are all sons of God through faith in Jesus Christ."
**Fulfillment of God's promises**
1. **Romans 8:14-17**: "You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him." This passage speaks to the new life and spiritual inheritance that children receive through baptism.
2. **1 Corinthians 15:22**: "For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man." This verse highlights the significance of Jesus' sacrifice and the promise of eternal life for all people, including children.
**Additional passages**
1. **Psalm 22:9-10**: "Yet it was You who took me out of the womb; You made me trust while at my mother's breast. I am dependent on You from birth; You have been my God since my earliest days."
2. **John 1:12-13**: "But to all who did receive Him, He gave them the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God."
These verses can be used as a basis for understanding and explaining child baptism.
Here are some Bible verses related to water baptism:
**New Testament:**
1. **Matthew 28:19-20**: "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit...and teach them to observe all that I commanded you." - Jesus commands His disciples to baptize new believers.
2. **Mark 1:9-10**: "In those days Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan River...And immediately, coming up from the water, He saw the heavens opening and the Spirit descending upon Him like a dove." - Jesus Himself is baptized by John.
3. **John 1:32-33**: "He is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! The one who comes after me ranks ahead of me, because he existed before me. I did not know him, but that one who sent me to baptize with water told you, 'The man on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain is the one who gives testimony concerning me.'" - John the Baptist explains the significance of Jesus' baptism.
4. **Acts 2:38**: "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins." - Peter preaches to the crowd at Pentecost, emphasizing the importance of water baptism for forgiveness.
5. **Romans 6:3-4**: "Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life." - Paul explains that water baptism is a symbol of our union with Christ's death and resurrection.
6. **Galatians 3:27**: "For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ." - Paul emphasizes the transformative nature of water baptism.
**Old Testament:**
1. **Genesis 8:9-12**: "But the dove found no rest for the bones of Noah; so it returned to him in the ark, just as she did at the end of the seven days...Then he sent out the dove...It came back without a twig or olive leaf in its mouth." - The dove's return to Noah may symbolize the need for spiritual renewal and cleansing.
2. **Ezekiel 36:25**: "I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will purify you from all your impurities before your eyes." - Ezekiel prophesies of God's cleansing power through water.
**Other notable verses:**
1. **Hebrews 11:5**: "By faith Noah...prepared an ark to save his family and many other lives..." - The story of Noah's Ark highlights the importance of obedience and salvation.
2. **Matthew 25:41**: "Then He will say to those on His left, 'Depart from Me, you cursed ones! Go away from Me, you who practice lawlessness.'" - This verse emphasizes the contrast between those who are saved (right-hand side) and those who are not (left-hand side).
These verses demonstrate the significance of water baptism in both the Old and New Testaments. While some may interpret these passages differently, they generally emphasize the importance of spiritual cleansing, renewal, and union with Christ through baptism.
Here are some beautiful and meaningful baptismal verse options specifically for adults:
**Scripture Readings:**
1. **Romans 6:3-4**: "Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried with him because we died, and just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might live a new life."
2. **Ephesians 4:20-24**: "But that is not the way of wisdom, that is not the way of love. When you were Gentiles, you lived in sinfulness and worldly ways; now you know God's will—be holy, just as he is holy. But because you belong to Christ Jesus, you are no longer condemned."
3. **Galatians 2:20**: "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
**Prayers and Poems:**
1. **"A New Creation" by Frederick Buechner**: "In baptism we are washed clean of our old selves and made new... We are given a second chance to start anew, to begin again with all the wisdom and wit and foolishness that we've accumulated over the years."
2. **"Baptismal Prayer" by John Donne**: "Wash me, good Lord, from my head to my feet; wash me, good Lord, and make me clean... Let this water be for you a baptism of my old self, and let it be a promise of my new life."
3. **"A Prayer for the Baptistee" by Thomas Merton**: "May this water purify my soul, may it wash away all my sins, all my doubts, all my fears... May it bring me closer to you, O God, and make me one with your holy will."
**Other Options:**
1. **The Apostles' Creed**: A classic statement of Christian faith that can be used as a baptismal affirmation.
2. **A personal testimony or story**: Share how your faith journey has brought you to this moment, and what you hope to achieve through baptism.
3. **A song or hymn**: Choose a song that speaks to the themes of new life, forgiveness, and commitment to Christ.
Remember, these are just suggestions. Ultimately, the choice of verses will depend on your personal preferences, faith tradition, and the tone you want to convey during the baptismal ceremony.
Here are some short and meaningful Bible verses that are suitable for a christening ceremony:
1. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." - John 3:16
2. "Jesus answered, 'Let it be now; it is written: "Do not disturb my son David for the rest of his days."'" - Matthew 1:20
3. "But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." - Joshua 24:15
4. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6
5. "I can do all this through him who gives me strength." - Philippians 4:13
6. "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with gratitude in your hearts, present your requests to God." - Philippians 4:6-7
7. "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." - Jeremiah 29:11
8. "You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance." - Psalm 32:7
9. "But the Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?" - Psalm 118:6
10. "God did not give us a spirit that makes us want to sin, but a holy spirit that helps us live in a way that honors God." - Galatians 5:16-18
These verses are short and easy to understand, making them perfect for a christening ceremony where you want to emphasize the importance of faith and the love of God.
Here are some key scriptures related to water baptism in the King James Version (KJV):
1. **Matthew 28:19**: "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost."
2. **Mark 16:15-16**: "And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned."
3. **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."
4. **Acts 8:12**: "But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women."
5. **Acts 9:18**: "And when he had received meat, and tasted, he then fell into a trance, until the next day full of the Holy Ghost; and did eat no bread with them while he was with them, except it were I Coriathims, and they which believed him came, continuing with him three days."
6. **Romans 6:3-4**: "Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore let us bury the members which are upon the earth; for we are buried with him in baptism, and also risen with him through the faith of the operation of God."
7. **1 Corinthians 12:13**: "For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether it be Jew or Greek, bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit."
8. **Ephesians 4:5**: "One Lord, one faith, one baptism."
Some key takeaways from these scriptures:
* Water baptism is a commandment from Jesus (Matthew 28:19).
* It's a necessary step for salvation (Mark 16:15-16).
* Baptism is an act of obedience and repentance (Acts 2:38).
* The baptism spoken of in the New Testament is not just for infants or young children, but for all believers (Acts 8:12; Acts 9:18).
* Water baptism is a symbol of our union with Christ (Romans 6:3-4).
* It's a means by which we are united to each other as members of the same body (1 Corinthians 12:13).
Of course, there are many more scriptures that speak to water baptism, but these are some key ones.
Catholic baptism often incorporates sacred Scripture to emphasize the importance of baptism and its connection to salvation. Here are some relevant Bible verses commonly used in Catholic baptismal rituals:
1. **Romans 6:3-4**: "Are you unaware that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we also might walk in newness of life."
2. **Colossians 1:13-14**: "He has delivered us from the power of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins."
3. **Ephesians 5:25-27**: "Husbands, love your wives as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her by cleansing her with the washing of water through the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle, or any such thing."
4. **John 3:5**: "Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit."
5. **Titus 3:5**: "He saved us through the washing of rebirth. And He gave us this good thing that is heavenly—His holy people—by means of Jesus Christ our Savior."
6. **Acts 2:38-39**: "Peter replied, 'Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.' Those who accepted his message were baptized, and that day about three thousand men and their families were added to them."
7. **Matthew 28:19-20**: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you."
These verses emphasize the importance of baptism as a means of salvation, washing away sin, and receiving the gift of new life in Christ. They are often incorporated into Catholic baptismal rituals, such as during the liturgy or when presenting the child for baptism.