Practicing Christian Leadership, Student Workbook, SW11

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P R A C T I C I N G C H R I S T I A N L E A D E R S H I P

The sacraments , also referred to in some Christian circles as ordinances (i.e., those practices commanded for the Church by the Lord), are sometimes referred to as means of grace . This expression, while not mentioned in Scripture, is widely used to speak of those practices and rites ordained by God where he conveys to believers his blessing and grace to his people.

III. The Ministry of the Sacraments

Matt. 28.19-20 - Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.

A. What the ministry of the sacraments is not

1. Keeping the sacraments as an alternative way to salvation, 1 Cor. 1.14-17

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2. Acting as if the sacraments must be practiced and celebrated in one and only one fashion

3. Assuming that only special individuals among God’s people may participate or officiate in these services, Matt. 18.20

B. What the ministry of the sacraments is

1. An expression of our obedience to Jesus as Lord (he commanded us to practice both baptism and to celebrate the Supper), 1 Cor. 11.23-26

2. As a way to worship God in their close affiliation with the work of Jesus Christ on the cross, Rom. 6.3-4

3. A way to identify both as individuals and as a group our unconditional allegiance to Jesus Christ in his death, his resurrection, and his return, John 6.51-56