Two ordinances: believer's baptism by immersion; Lord's Supper as memorial
The AG practices two ordinances — water baptism and the Lord's Supper — understanding them as acts of obedience and public testimony, not as means of conveying saving grace. The term 'ordinance' is preferred over 'sacrament' to emphasize that these rites do not themselves effect salvation or confer grace ex opere operato.
Water baptism is administered by full immersion to confessing believers following conversion. Infant baptism is not practiced, as the AG holds that baptism presupposes personal faith. Baptism in water is distinguished from baptism in the Holy Spirit — the AG teaches both as distinct and important but does not conflate them. The formula used is Trinitarian ('in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit'), distinguishing AG practice from Oneness Pentecostals who baptize only 'in Jesus' name.'
The Lord's Supper is observed as a memorial of Christ's death until his return. The AG does not hold to the Real Presence of Christ's body and blood in the elements, rejecting both the Catholic doctrine of transubstantiation and Lutheran consubstantiation. Bread and juice (unfermented, in most AG churches) are symbolic representations of Christ's body and blood.
Key Distinctions
- Term used:
- ordinances
- Sacrament count:
- two (Water Baptism and Lord's Supper); some add foot washing
- Baptism mode:
- immersion
- Baptism recipients:
- believers only
- Eucharist presence:
- symbolic memorial
Scripture References
Sources
- Assemblies of God Statement of Fundamental Truths, §6: The Ordinances of the Church