The Christian Name (Sadler's Church Teacher's Manual)

The Christian Name (Sadler's Church Teacher's Manual)

The Christian Name is Section I of The Church Teacher's Manual of Christian Instruction, Michael Ferrebee Sadler's 1872 expansion of the Church Catechism in question-and-answer form.

Summary

Sadler treats the opening question of the Church Catechism as more than a request for information. The Christian name recalls the baptismal act, the naming of the baptized person before the Church, and the personal responsibility attached to baptismal promises.

Sadler's Text

Sadler's catechetical treatment of this topic is anchored in the statement, "Because, at my Baptism, God's minister called me by this name when he said to me,"I baptize thee in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost."" He further explains the section by saying, "Yes; because it reminds me of my responsibility."

Theological Themes

• Baptismal identity
• Christian vocation
• Personal responsibility before God
• Sponsors and naming in baptism

Scripture References

The following references are representative biblical texts used or implied in this section of Sadler's catechetical exposition:

• Matthew 1:21
• Genesis 17:3-7
• Genesis 32:28
• Luke 1:13, 63
• John 10:3, 14
• Acts 11:26

Anglican Context

This section is connected chiefly with the Book of Common Prayer baptismal office and the opening clauses of the Church Catechism, especially the language of Christian name, sponsors, renunciation, faith, and obedience. Sadler's treatment reflects nineteenth-century Church of England catechesis and should be read as a historical Anglican source alongside current provincial formularies and catechetical resources.

See Also

• The Church Teacher's Manual of Christian Instruction
• Baptism
• Church Catechism
• Book of Common Prayer
• Godparents