Discussion Board 3

One of the major issues dividing various church traditions and denominations is related to the so-called “sacraments” or “ordinances.” Protestants recognize only the two ordinances of baptism and Holy Communion (Lord’s Supper). Other Christian denominations recognize confirmation, penance (confession), anointing of the sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony as additional sacraments. These differences have caused long-standing divisions amongst the denominations. Is this divisiveness necessary? Why do Christians make such an issue of this?

Perhaps the main reason for such division and contention over sacraments and ordinances amongst Christian denominations is the relationship between the sacraments and salvation. Some denominations, like Roman Catholicism, view the sacraments as, “necessary for the justification of the sinner,” and “they actually effect or convey grace” (Erickson, 1018). All Christians can agree that, due to our sin nature, the forgiveness of sins, restoration, and eternal salvation are of primary importance for all of humanity. The way in which salvation is obtained thus becomes a critical and nonnegotiable issue.

All Christians can agree that, due to our sin nature, the forgiveness of sins, restoration, and eternal salvation are of primary importance for all of humanity.

Let’s take a look at the ordinance of baptism to better understand this issue. Sacramentalists, those who believe salvation is transmitted through the sacraments of the church, often point to John 3:5, “Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God,” in support of their view. Wayne Grudem argues, however, that understood with the background of Ezekiel 36:25-27, “to be born of water and the Spirit is a “spiritual” washing that occurs when we are born again” (Grudem, 974). Further, the NT affirms the clear teaching that justification is by faith alone (Eph 2:8-9; Rom 6-23). Paul also gives strong warning to those who try and earn salvation through...