Ordinances and Rites

-Water baptism-

Immersion in water is a physical sign of a spiritual work. While we do not take the position that baptism in water is a requirement for salvation, we do affirm that this symbol of both our spiritual cleansing at salvation and of our sharing in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ is commanded in the Scriptures and that it is personally irresponsible to forego water baptism. Immersion in water should be administered to all who have repented and believe on Jesus Christ as Lord. (Matthew 28:19; John 3:3-7; Romans 6:3-5; Colossians 2:12)

 

-Communion-

The Lord's Supper - consisting of bread and the fruit of the vine, in either wine or juice - is symbolic of our sharing in the divine nature of our Lord Jesus Christ. The broken bread is a symbol of the body of Jesus Christ, broken for us, through which He carried and experienced our pain and brokenness in body or soul. The fruit of the vine is a symbol of the sacrificial blood of the Lord Jesus Christ, wherein He gave His life for us that we might be made whole in spirit and share in His eternal life. We observe and practice communion according to our understanding of Scripture. (Luke 22:19-20; I Corinthians 11:23-36)

 

-Marriage-

Scripture indicates that the intimate relationship between a man and a woman - which we call marriage, and which encompasses body, soul and spirit union - is designed and ordained of God, and is of eternal consequence. (Mark 10:6-9)

 

-Infant Dedication-

Infants and small children may be dedicated to the Lord in the assembly whenever requested, provided the parent or parents, or legal guardians of the children, will promise, by exemplary Christian life and teaching, to raise the child in the fear of the Lord. (I Samuel 1:27-28)

 

-Prayer of Faith-

Anointing with oil and praying for God's divine intervention in our personal lives is not only appropriate but also our responsibility toward one another as followers of Jesus. We pray for people upon their request and according to Scriptural teaching. (Mark 16:18; James 5:14-16)