Ordinances: What are They?

by David R. Plaster

What is the difference between an ordinance and a sacrament? In the minds of average Christians, they seem to be clear and well-defined. But when pressed to actually define the terms, it is not a task that is easily undertaken. In fact, the Church has seen a tremendous amount of diversity as to what an ordinance really is. From the early post-apostolic era, in which little attention or definition was offered, to the height of Scholasticism in the Middle Ages, when a list of 30 sacraments was presented, theologians have discussed and debated this subject. What Are They? is written by Grace Brethren pastor David Plaster and explores the possible parameters which Biblical data and theological deduction place on the term “ordinance.” He provides an overview of the term and its history, reviews its ceremonial aspects, highlights any intended significance, and discusses what constitutes an expectation of perpetuation regarding ordinances.

144 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1985

Reviews

[LAMONT D · Rating 3 out of 5]

Years ago, when my wife and I were seeking out seminaries to attend we travelled to Grace Theological Seminary in Winona like, Indiana. That is apparently where I picked up this book. I read it again today because my small group have talked about the sacraments or ordinances in the church at various times this past year. This book, although given from a Grace Brethren perspective, does a good job in analyzing the overall biblical, historical, and theological information out there that determines how one might stand on any of these issues. The conclusion does a nice job of summarizing what was in the four preceding chapters. The best part of the book or most useful is in the appendixes that gives the breakdown of each sacrament discussed with relevant scriptural references and discussion on how to interpret. Obviously, there is not enough detail in this relatively small book to cover extensively a subject as controversial as baptism or the Lord's Supper, but it was a good review and resource to get the reader to the appropriate scriptures to research.