The Scriptures ordain two sacraments for the church — water baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Baptism is the biblical way in which a believer publicly professes their saving faith and commitment to Christ (cf. Acts 2:38-41). Christ commanded water baptism for anyone who professes to follow Him (cf. Matthew 28:18-20). While the early Church permitted modes of baptism other than immersion, (cf. The Didache 7) the word “baptism” means immersion and this mode best symbolizes the spiritual process of salvation (cf. Romans 6:2-4).
A new believer’s baptism can take place at any place and any time, but is especially joyous when this step of faith is celebrated with the church family. We would ask you to consider baptism on a Sunday morning, or another time when your friends and family can gather with you.
Any additional questions about baptism or scheduling a baptism at the New Life Ministry Center, can be directed to Pastor Brian.
The Lord's Supper (or Communion) was instituted by Christ as a ceremony in which we remember His sacrificial death on the cross for our sins and look forward to His return to rule the new Earth. The elements of bread and drink are symbolic reminders of His broken body and shed blood (cf. Matthew 26:26-29).
Since only believers can properly recognize the significance of what the ceremony means, unbelievers are in danger of bringing God’s judgment on themselves if they participate (cf. 1 Corinthians 11:23-32). Accordingly, the church has a responsibility to protect unbelievers. Therefore, we ask that only those who have expressed their faith in Christ as their Lord and Savior through water baptism join the church family in The Lord’s Supper.
While the Bible does not specify the frequency of this sacrament, the early Christians “devoted themselves” (Acts 2:42) to it. Our current practice is to celebrate Communion every week in our Sunday service and periodically in our L.I.F.E. Groups.
