Why We Do What We Do?

I am always asking, “Why?” I never liked the answer from my parents when I asked why I had to do something and they said, “Because I told you to.” I always wanted a reason. We are having communion today and next week we are going out to the river and having a baptism ceremony. Why are these two “ceremonies” or “ordinances” a part of what we do here at CBC? The main reason is that Jesus told us to, but with a good reason.

Protestant churches typically recognize two ordinances – baptism and communion – and CBC is no exception. What is an ordinance? It is a practice for the local church that was instituted by Jesus in the New Testament and practiced by the early church. Jesus directly commanded both baptism (Matthew 28:19) and communion (Luke 22:19) as ongoing practices for His followers. Each have tangible symbols of spiritual truths.

Water baptism symbolizes being born again, reflects the baptism of the Holy Spirit at the moment of salvation that results in the Holy Spirit permanently indwelling the believer as we have union with Christ in His death and resurrection (Romans 6:4-5). Communion focuses our worship together upon the life, death, resurrection and return of Christ. It reminds us of why we have forgiveness and eternal life, that it is because of Jesus’ sacrifice and victory over death on our behalf (Matthew 26:26-28).

As I mentioned at the beginning, I like to ask, “Why?” The truths behind baptism and communion are essential to remember, but why do we have to practice them regularly? Why publicly and corporately as opposed to privately and secretly? It is as if Jesus knew that today in our culture Christians would struggle to reach out as well as struggle to commit to meeting together regularly for church. He knew we needed to be encouraged to share our testimony and commit to be unified in gospel-centered worship. Yes, Jesus said in essence, “Because I told you to,” but just like parents today, He knows what’s best for His children.

Pastor Phil Newby