← All studies

Study 16 of 18

Baptism and the Communion Service

The ordinances the elder may conduct when the pastor is absent

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

Chapter 8 covers the special services the elder conducts when the pastor is unavailable. Baptism is a symbol of death to the old life and the beginning of new life in Christ; elders visit, encourage, and give Bible studies to candidates, and under certain conditions — with authorization from the conference president — may perform the baptism itself (Church Manual, p. 75). The chapter gives detailed practical guidance: place of baptism, preparation, dressing, the baptismal formula, logistics (fear of water, the elderly, no electric microphones in the water), and welcome after baptism. The Communion service, instituted by Christ at the Last Supper, is ordinarily held quarterly; ordained pastors and elders are authorized to conduct it. Adventists practice open Communion. The service includes the sermon, the ordinance of humility (foot washing), and the Lord's Supper, with deacons and deaconesses providing practical support.

Key points

  • Baptism symbolizes death to the old life and new life in Christ.
  • An elder may baptize only with authorization from the conference president.
  • Communion is ordinarily quarterly; ordained pastors and elders may conduct it.
  • Adventists practice open Communion — all who trust Christ may participate.
  • The service includes the sermon, foot washing, and the Lord's Supper.

Key texts

  • Romans 6:3-4
  • Matthew 28:19
  • 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
  • John 13:1-17
  • 1 Corinthians 11:27-29
  1. Comprehension

    1. What does baptism symbolize, according to the chapter?

  2. Comprehension

    2. Under what condition may an elder perform a baptism?

  3. Scripture

    3. Read Romans 6:3-4. How does this text explain the meaning of baptism the handbook describes?

  4. Comprehension

    4. What practical precautions does the handbook give for conducting a baptism?

  5. Comprehension

    5. Who is authorized to conduct the Communion service?

  6. Scripture

    6. Read 1 Corinthians 11:23-26. What does the Communion proclaim, and until when?

  7. Doctrinal Clarity

    7. What does 'open Communion' mean in the Adventist practice described?

  8. Comprehension

    8. What is the ordinance of humility, and why does the handbook include it?

  9. Contrast

    9. Contrast a baptism conducted with reverent preparation with one done hastily as a formality.

  10. Scripture

    10. Read 1 Corinthians 11:27-29. How does this warning shape how the elder leads Communion?

  11. Application

    11. How would you prepare a candidate for baptism so the ordinance is not a mere ceremony?