Small Catechism 4
Flame Lyrics

In Flame's song "Small Catechism 4," the lyrics delve deep into the symbolism and significance of the act of baptism with water. The lyrics question, "What does such baptizing with water signify?" and the answer provided is profound. It elaborates that this act signifies a symbolic representation of the old Adam, which represents our sinful nature, being washed away through daily contrition and repentance. By undergoing this baptism, we are metaphorically drowned and die with all our sins and evil desires, paving the way for a new self to emerge, one that is pure and righteous before God. This transformation is described as a continuous process, with a new man emerging daily to live in righteousness and purity before God eternally.

The lyrics further specify the biblical foundation of this symbolism by referencing Saint Paul's words from the book of Romans, chapter 6. The answer to where this concept is written highlights a pivotal passage where Saint Paul illustrates the spiritual significance of baptism through the metaphor of being buried with Christ in His death. Just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, believers symbolically rise from the waters of baptism to walk in newness of life. This connection between the believer's baptism and Christ's resurrection is crucial in understanding the transformative power of this sacrament.

The lyrics from Flame's song emphasize the profound depth of the spiritual journey that baptism initiates. It is not merely a physical act of cleansing with water but a symbolic representation of dying to our old selves and being reborn into a new life in Christ. Through the lens of contrition, repentance, and the continuous renewal of our inner being, baptism signifies a constant process of transformation and sanctification. The lyrics ultimately point towards the eternal promise of living in righteousness and purity before God, as inspired by the scriptural teachings elucidated in Saint Paul's epistle to the Romans, chapter 6.

In summary, the lyrics of "Small Catechism 4" by Flame provide a profound exploration of the symbolic significance of baptism with water, drawing from the biblical teachings of Saint Paul in the book of Romans. The act of baptism is portrayed as a transformative journey where the old self, representative of the sinful nature, is cleansed through contrition and repentance. By being baptized into death with Christ, believers symbolically rise to walk in newness of life, embodying righteousness and purity before God. This continual process of dying to the old self and rising as a new creation is underscored as a fundamental aspect of living a life devoted to God in eternal purity and righteousness.