Sacraments
What are the Means of Grace?
God's Word and Sacraments
What does the word "baptize" mean?
To whom does Baptism give its blessings?
To all who believe God's saving promises.
God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit
What puts the blessings/benefits into the Sacraments?
God's Word
What is the visible element in Baptism?
water
Why do we need baptism?
The grace won for us by Jesus through his life, death and resurrection is distributed to us in Baptism. (Baptism is a means of grace.)
Who normally baptizes?
Called and ordained pastors
What receives the blessings/benefits from the Sacraments?
Faith
Who is to be baptized?
Everyone; "all nations"
Can an unbaptized person be saved?
Yes; it is only unbelief that condemns.
Why isn't Confession and Absolution always considered a sacrament?
Doesn't have a visible element
How many sacraments do we recognize?
Two (Baptism and Holy Communion)
OR
Three (Baptism, Holy Communion and Absolution)
1. They are included in "all nations"
2. Jesus invites little children to come to him
3. As sinners, babies need what Baptism offers
4. Babies are able to have faith
Why do we not seek a "baptism with the Holy Spirit" apart from the Sacrament of Holy Baptism?
1. There is no other God-given Baptism
2. the sacrament is not water-only or Spirit-only but a water-and-Spirit baptism
3. special signs granted by the Holy Spirit are not another "baptism" but proved the truth and power of disciples' preaching.
What are the visible elements in Holy Communion?
Bread and Wine
What 3 things must be true for a sacred act to be a sacrament?
1. Instituted by God
2. visible element joined to God's Word
3. gives and seals forgiveness of sins
What are baptismal sponsors to do?
1. witness the baptism to make sure it's done properly
2. pray for the one they sponsor
3. help raise them in the faith
What benefits does Baptism give?
1. Works forgiveness of sins
2. Rescues from death and the devil
3. Gives eternal salvation
The word "sacrament" comes from a Latin word meaning what?
Mystery