Question 93: Which are the sacraments of the New Testament?
Answer: The sacraments of the New Testament are, Baptism, and the Lord's supper.
Dear Neighbor,
I believe it of necessity that I once again define sacrament and ordinance. In answer to question 92, the Westminster Puritans said, “A sacrament is an holy ordinance instituted by Christ.” I agree that the Baptism and the Lord’s supper are ordinances instituted by Christ, and they are Holy because Christ instituted them, but for what purpose and to whom? This is the purpose of the questions that follow, but for now, let us once again define sacrament and ordinance.
The authors of The Baptist Faith & Message define ordinance and sacrament thus:
- Ordinance means decree or command.
- The word sacrament implies that the act itself conveys grace to the believer.
Both the Westminster Puritans and Baptist agree that the Lord Jesus Christ instituted Baptism and the Lord’s supper, and there are none but these. (cf. Mt. 28:19 & 1 Co. 11:23) On Thursday and Friday we will explorer the questions of Baptism.
Michael Peek
Your Servant for Jesus’ Sake
