Difference between revisions of "Sacraments"
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| − | A sacrament is a Christian practice that signifies the [[grace]] of [[God]]. These practices are generally understood to have been instituted (or commanded) by Jesus Christ. In some churches the term is referred to as an ordinance. In the [[Roman Catholic Church]], [[Eastern Orthodoxy]], [[Lutheranism]] and some forms of [[Anglicanism]] it is taught that sacraments are not only symbolic but also a means by which God communicates his grace. Most other [[Protestant]] churches hold that sacraments are purely symbolic signs of an inward change. | + | A sacrament is a Christian practice that signifies or effectuates the [[grace]] of [[God]]. These practices are generally understood to have been instituted (or commanded) by Jesus Christ. In some churches the term is referred to as an ordinance. In the [[Roman Catholic Church]], [[Eastern Orthodoxy]], [[Lutheranism]] and some forms of [[Anglicanism]] it is taught that sacraments are not only symbolic but also a means by which God communicates his grace. Most other [[Protestant]] churches hold that sacraments are purely symbolic signs of an inward change. |
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| + | == Origin of the word == | ||
| + | The latin word ''sacramentum'' (holy sign) was used in secular latin for the military oath of allegiance. Its religious usage was introduced by [[Augustine of Hippo|Augustine]]. In his latin translation of the Bible, the [[Vulgata]], [[Jerome]] translated the Greek word mysterion partially with sacramentum, partially with mysterium. | ||
== Different views == | == Different views == | ||
Revision as of 23:03, 23 July 2008
| Sacrament / Ordinance | |
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| SERMONS, ESSAYS AND OPINIONS |
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A sacrament is a Christian practice that signifies or effectuates the grace of God. These practices are generally understood to have been instituted (or commanded) by Jesus Christ. In some churches the term is referred to as an ordinance. In the Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodoxy, Lutheranism and some forms of Anglicanism it is taught that sacraments are not only symbolic but also a means by which God communicates his grace. Most other Protestant churches hold that sacraments are purely symbolic signs of an inward change.
Origin of the word
The latin word sacramentum (holy sign) was used in secular latin for the military oath of allegiance. Its religious usage was introduced by Augustine. In his latin translation of the Bible, the Vulgata, Jerome translated the Greek word mysterion partially with sacramentum, partially with mysterium.
Different views
In the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches it is taught that there are seven sacraments. These sacraments are
In Eastern Orthodoxy baptism and confirmation are administered together.
In most Protestant churches, including the Lutheran, Anglican and Baptist churches, it is taught that there are two sacraments. These are
- Baptism
- Holy Communion (also called the Lord's supper or the Eucharist)
Additionally, in Anglicanism, the other five five sacraments of the Catholic and Orthodox traditions are mentioned in the 39 Articles, although they are not counted as "Sacraments of the Gospel".
In a few Protestant churches, it is taught that Jesus instituted three ordinances. These are:
- Baptism
- The Lord's supper
- Foot-washing
Quotes
Links
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