Affirms
Trinitarian baptismal formula; believer's baptism into Father, Son, Spirit
The CRC affirms Matthew 28:19 as the normative command for Christian baptism. Baptism is administered in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, invoking the Trinitarian formula. The CRC practices infant baptism (paedobaptism), understanding baptism as a covenant sign and seal applied to believing parents and their children (as members of the covenant community). Baptism represents union with Christ's death and resurrection and entrance into the Church. The Trinitarian formula emphasizes that baptism initiates a relationship with the triune God and incorporates the baptized into Christ's body.
Key Distinctions
- Baptismal formula:
- Trinitarian invocation: Father, Son, Holy Spirit
- Baptism mode:
- Baptism recipients:
- believers and their covenant children
Scripture References
Sources
- Heidelberg Catechism, Q&A 69-71
- Christian Reformed Church Doctrinal Standards