Five sacraments: baptism, communion, foot washing, Spirit baptism (tongues), Sabbath
The True Jesus Church is unique in its theology of sacraments, recognizing five sacramental requirements for full salvation: (1) water baptism by immersion face-downward in the name of Jesus only; (2) Holy Communion (the Lord's Supper); (3) foot washing; (4) baptism of the Holy Spirit, evidenced by speaking in tongues; and (5) observance of the Saturday Sabbath.
All five are understood as essential to salvation, not optional extras. Water baptism is not performed in the Trinitarian formula ('Father, Son, and Holy Ghost') but exclusively in 'Jesus' name only,' with the person baptized facing downward in the water. This particular mode and formula are believed to be biblical and necessary. Communion is celebrated regularly and is understood as a memorial and means of grace. Foot washing, based on John 13, is practiced as a sacrament symbolizing humility and service.
The baptism of the Holy Spirit is inseparable from the gift of speaking in tongues, which the church teaches is the necessary initial evidence of Spirit reception. Finally, Sabbath observance on Saturday is not merely encouraged but is sacramentally binding, distinguishing the True Jesus Church from most Pentecostal denominations. These five sacraments function together as an integrated system of grace and obedience.
Key Distinctions
- Term used:
- sacraments/ordinances
- Sacrament count:
- five: baptism (face-down, Jesus name), communion, foot washing, Holy Spirit (tongues), Sabbath
- Baptism mode:
- full immersion face-downward in Jesus name only
- Baptism recipients:
- believers
- Eucharist presence:
- memorial
Scripture References
Sources
- True Jesus Church doctrine of five sacraments
- Official teachings on baptism, communion, and Sabbath