Introducing: the sacraments

CHAPTER 28: Of Baptism And The Lord’s Supper

There are only two Christian sacraments: Baptism and the Lord’s Supper.  These two sacraments may be called sacraments, or ordinances, and they are rituals.  Let me explain:

A sacrament is an outward physical symbol of an inward spiritual reality.  Both Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are just that—physical symbols of spiritual realities.

An ordinance is something commanded.  Both Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are commanded (Matthew 28:18-20, Matthew 26:26-27).  Therefore to reject, or even to neglect them, is disobedience.

Both Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are rituals.  While some insist that rituals are bad, they are not.  A ritual is merely a religious ceremony.  Weddings and funerals are religious ceremonies and they are not bad.  Here is what a ritual must be for its observance to be proper: (1) It must be biblical.  (2) The participants must understand the meaning and must participate sincerely and thoughtfully. 

Without these qualifications being met, even a good ritual can become empty ritualism, which is not good.

Except in extraordinary instances in which duly ordained officers of the church (elders or deacons) are not available, the sacraments are to be administered by duly ordained officers of the church.

Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are to be observed until the Lord comes again.

Chapters 29 & 30 will consider both sacraments separately, in more detail.

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