The Church is a place of the sacraments

And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.
Acts 2:42

This verse contains the most complete, yet succinct description of what a New Testament church is about. The verse can be divided into six descriptions of what kind of place the Church is to be. Let’s consider the fifth of six.

5. The Church is a place of the sacraments. God primarily communicates with His people through words. The Old Testament prophets said, “Thus says the Lord…” When Jesus came, He said, “You have heard that it was said, but I say…” We not only call the Bible the Word, scripture calls Jesus the Word (John 1:1-3).

Because humans are so easily distracted by, and drawn to what we can see, God warns us continually about the dangers of idols. We are told (in the Word) “No one can see God and live” (Exodus 33:20).

The only two exceptions in the New Testament are the sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper. In these two observances, we have pictures to see. They are very simple: water, wine, and bread. Baptism is a picture that illustrates our association with Christ. The Lord’s Supper is a picture that begs us to “remember Him” (as well as nourishing our souls spiritually).

Baptism is generally a one-time event, preferably early in one’s walk with the Lord. The Lord’s Supper is a regular and ongoing observance throughout our lives in the Lord. May I encourage you to receive both, and not either without the other.

These two sacraments are for believers—all believers and only believers. These two sacraments are commanded and therefore to be administered in the Church for believers—all believers and only believers.

If you are a believer, have you been baptized? If not, you need to be. If you are a baptized believer, are you receiving the Supper as often as it is administered?

Two booklets about the sacraments will be up on the website soon. Watch for them.

Next Time: The Church is a place of prayer.