Sacraments & Ordinances

IFCA International recognizes two ordinances instituted by Christ: believer's baptism and the Lord's Supper. These are not sacraments conveying grace ex opere operato but are symbols, memorials, and signs of grace already received. Baptism is the immersion of a believer in water as a public profession of faith and identification with Christ's death and resurrection. Only those who have made a credible profession of faith in Christ are eligible for baptism; infant baptism is rejected.

Unlike some Baptist traditions, the IFCA allows flexibility in baptismal mode. While immersion is preferred and practiced by many congregations, sprinkling and pouring are recognized as valid modes depending on congregational conviction and circumstance. This reflects IFCA's emphasis on congregational autonomy and the primacy of Scripture over denominational uniformity. The essential element is the profession of faith and obedience to Christ's command.

The Lord's Supper is a commemorative meal in which believers remember Christ's death and proclaim his return. The bread and wine are memorials of Christ's body and blood, not transformed into his literal flesh and blood. The IFCA generally practices a memorial view of the Supper rather than affirming spiritual presence or transubstantiation. Frequency of observance varies by congregation. Some churches practice open communion (inviting all believers), while others restrict participation to baptized church members.