The Two Ordinances of the Local Church

Baptism is one of two Ordinances given to the local church by Christ to carry out. Baptism is a transliteration of the word Baptidso which means to dunk or place under and is one reason for our emphasis for immersion. Scriptural baptism pictures the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. For the picture to be proper and correct the one who is baptized is testifying in action and word that they have placed their faith and trust in Jesus Christ for their eternity and are raised in Him to walk in newness of life. Therefore one who has never been saved should not be baptized. What a celebration though for this ordinance to be practiced on a regular basis. Nothing stirs the church like watching one follow the Lord in obedience to His Word and be raised out of the baptismal waters to walk in newness of life. (Matthew 28:19, Acts 2:41, Romans 6:4)

The second ordinance of our Lord is the Lord's Supper. Again this ordinance pictures and draws the believer to a place of identification and remembrance of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The symbolism of the bread representing Christ body and the fruit of the vine representing His blood shed as the ultimate Passover lamb, shows elievers
and members of that local body the significance of His substitutionary death. We reject the doctrine of transubstantiation that claims the elements literally become the blood and body of Christ when partaken. We cherish this memorial and celebration of a Risen Savior. (1 Corinthians 11: 23-33)

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