Baptism: GCSE Religious Studies Definition

What is baptism?

In GCSE Religious Studies, Baptism is generally understood as the initiation rite by which people become members of the Christian Church. Almost all Christian churches practise baptism. Some Christians see baptism as a sacrament; others view it as an important ceremony. A few Christian Churches do not perform baptism, such as the Quakers and the Salvation Army.

Some Christians, such as Catholics, Anglicans and Methodists, practise infant baptism. Other Christians, such as Baptists and Pentecostals, practise believers’ baptism when a person is old enough to choose for themselves.

Baptism rites vary between churches, but generally involve the use of water as a symbol of the washing away of sins and new life with Jesus. Other symbols include white clothing, a candle, and oil.

Baptism is important to many Christians because:

• It welcomes new members into the Christian community.

• It symbolises purification and the washing away of sins.

• It follows the example of Jesus, who was baptised by John the Baptist according to the Bible (Mark 1:9-11). 

• It follows the command of Jesus, who after his resurrection asked his disciples to go out and baptise people (Matthew 28:19).
  

Baptism Revision Resources to Ace Your Exams

Use the Save My Exams AQA and Edexcel GCSE resources to explore the topic of Christian baptism further. You can revisit your learning using revision notes. Use past papers and exam questions to check your understanding of baptism in Christianity.

AQA GCSE Religious Studies Revision Resources