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Baptism and the Lord's Supper

Two practices Jesus commanded: a public first step and a regular meal of remembrance.

Baptism

Jesus commanded His followers to be baptized. Baptism doesn't save you; it publicly shows that you've been united to Christ in His death and resurrection. Churches differ on some details, so ask your pastor how your church practices it, and don't delay taking that step of obedience.

The Lord's Supper

On the night He was betrayed, Jesus took bread and the cup and told His disciples to do this in remembrance of Him. Communion proclaims His death until He comes. Paul urges believers to examine themselves first, not to stay away, but to come honestly and humbly.

From Scripture

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Matthew 28:19-20 (BSB)

Or aren’t you aware that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may walk in newness of life.

Romans 6:3-4 (BSB)

For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night He was betrayed, took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” In the same way, after supper He took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.” For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.

1 Corinthians 11:23-26 (BSB)

Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Acts 2:38 (BSB)

Put it into practice

  • If you haven't been baptized since trusting Christ, ask your pastor about it this week.
  • Before your next communion, read 1 Corinthians 11:23-26.
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These notes are pastoral commentary. Scripture quotations are from the Berean Standard Bible.