Ordinance

The messages the last two Sundays have been an interesting re-gripping of what baptism is all about. Upon further review I was struck by the contrast in ordinances. In the New Testament, Scripture mandates two practices to be regularly practiced by the local church: communion and baptism.

In kind of a "duh" moment, the contrast between the two caught my attention. Through His various scribes, God gave us detailed information about communion... what it symbolizes, who we're to remember each time we partake, who should practice it, when it should be practiced, who should not practice it, what happens to those who practiced it when they weren't supposed to, etcetera, etcetera. Lots of detail. Contrast that with what's recorded about baptism.

It's explained, but not in terms as specific as communion is explained. We're told what it symbolizes and who should practice it. But as I reflect on what I know and remember about the Bible, I don't recall reading anything that specifies who should not practice it. Nor do I recall reading anything about what happens, if anything, to those who are baptized who shouldn't have been. In fact, there's something to be said for the amount of stuff not written about baptism. Just an interesting observation.

This just in, there are now upwards of 90 people who want to be baptized on Sunday; unbelievable. Be praying for these 80+ people who are taking that next step in their relationship with Christ.