Sacraments

Before we stylized the sacrament to make it expedient for large worship gatherings, the early church had some very distinct practices surrounding the communion. Watch this Seven Minute Seminary with Dr. Ruth Anne Reese as she explains the historical backdrop of the early church's experience with the Last Supper.

Have the form, but not the power? Jonathan Lawson shares a profound perspective on how evangelicalism neglected the sacramental nature of worship in integrating contemporary-style worship services in mainline denominations.

There is only one baptism, so how is baptism a part of our daily discipleship at all? Andrew Thompson explains how we are to integrate our baptism into the daily living-out of our faith.

The means of grace are discipleship practices that we draw from the biblical witness. Watch this Seven Minute Seminary video as Dr. Andrew C. Thompson explains critical paths to spiritual formation and discipleship.

What is the term, Communion Sunday, all about? Why do we use it? Jason Nelson gives 10 great reasons why we should ditch it altogether, as well as a prescription for encountering a unique kind of grace each week.

What wonders unfold when we consider the Eucharist in light of the holy mystery that is the Trinity? Chris Green shares his musings on what the Eucharist becomes as he surveys the work of each of the three members of the Triune God.

What we learn throughout the Bible is that God uses created things to impart grace and mercy in order to minister to our needs. In today's Seven Minute Seminary, Dr. Bob Stamps explains how the ultimate source of power for all of these means is the person of Jesus Christ himself.

What is a sacrament and why do Christians celebrate them, besides the obvious fact that Jesus told us to? In this article, Timothy Tennent introduces Christian baptism and the Lord's supper, and explains their significance in a way that anyone can understand.

Why do Christians take communion? In this Seven Minute Seminary video, Dr. Robert Stamps explains what happens at communion and why it's so important for Christians to regularly celebrate the Eucharist. He suggests that it has more to do with what happens to us than what happens to the elements.

Covenant renewal services revisit what it means to be a follower of Christ. Adapted by professor and worship designer Jonathan Powers, check out this modern order of worship adapted from John Wesley's service.