"WHAT THE BIBLE TEACHES ABOUT COMMUNION AND BAPTISM"
God established two memorials (ordinances) to remind us of
the Gospel: communion and baptism.
Ours is an “open" communion.
Some groups permit only members of the local church to participate.
Since the ordinances belong to Christ, not the church, we contend that participation is between the individual Christian and the LORD.
We observe communion every week. (Acts 20:7)
The danger - taking it forgranted.
(I Corinthians 11:27-30)
The advantage - spiritual growth. (John 6:53-55)
Communion is a "participation" in the body of Christ.
It is our understanding that the elements do not literally become the body and the blood of Christ. (Transubstantiation)
But communion is more than just a symbol, it is a time of union with Christ and His followers.
(1 Corinthians10:16;
1 Corinthians 11:23-26)
Baptism is only for those old enough to believe.
It is appropriate for parents to dedicate their children to God, but there is no record of infant baptism in Scripture.
Baptism is for those who are capable of understanding its significance.
(Mark 16:16, Acts2:38)
Baptism is by immersion.
Sprinkling was approved as a substitute form of baptism at the council of Ravenna, 1311.
Our intent is to restore baptism to its original form.
(John 3:23; Acts 8:38-39)
Baptism, symbolizing the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ, represents our death to sin, burial with Christ and resurrection into new life with Him. (Romans 6:1-7)
Anyone who has followed the New Testament pattern of baptism by immersion can become a member of Corner House Christian Church.
Baptism is for the remission of sins and the reception of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:38)
Baptism is more than just a symbol or memorial.
Baptism is the time when the double curse of salvation is given.
It is a means of union with Christ and empowerment from the Holy Spirit. (Galatians 3:27; Colossians 2:9-12; Titus 3:3-7)
Some concluding principles about baptism.
The act of baptism does not save; Christ does.
(Ephesians 2:8-9)
Baptism is a demonstration of our acceptance of Christ as Savior and Lord. (Romans 6:1-5)
Baptism is the point in time where we can be confident of God's forgiveness. (I Peter 3:21)
In the New Testament, baptism was performed as soon as someone surrendered to Christ. (Acts 8:36; Acts 16:33)
Baptism should be a source of unity, not division among believers. (Ephesians 4:3-6)
"And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name. (Acts 22:16)