The Sacraments and the Bible

Taking a fresh look at what Scripture actually says about the Sacraments

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How can The Salvation Army justify non-adherence to
the sacraments of baptism and the Eucharist
when it seems clear that the vast majority of other
denominations regard them as being
an intrinsic part of the Christian faith?

Can such a position be defended using the Bible alone?

And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it,
and gave it to them, saying,
"This is my body given for you;
do this in remembrance of me."
Luke 22v19

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,
baptising them in the name of
the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
Matthew 28 v19

The Sacraments and the Bible

A personal review and testimony by Pauline Fidoe from her perspective as a Salvationist who came from a Baptist tradition, August 7th 2007.

'A valuable teaching tool, both for new and not so new Salvationists.'

This book is excellent. Set out in a simple easy to read style it gives the reader a clear and concise understanding of The Salvation Army's premise regarding the subject matter.

I have not always been a Salvationist but have come from a mainly Baptist background. Nothing 'spiritual' had come to mean anything to me through childhood and beyond. One day in 1970 I experienced a profound touch of God whilst in a Baptist chapel. That experience was very real and I needed to speak with the minister. I was totally ignorant of church beliefs and the Bible. The minister, a deaconess, gave me a verbally concise understanding of the beliefs and practices of Baptist spirituality. I took those beliefs etc. as being the norm for the whole church. Gradually I learned differently as I worked in conjunction with several other denominations through the churches together network, especially in London. I found division and criticism with each one defending any difference. I began to search for joy among believers in unity and mainly drew a blank.

Tacitly The Salvation Army was looked upon as being peculiarly 'different'. Their work was recognised and applauded but.....

There was always a 'but'.

The circumstances of life brought me to live in Hythe, still looking for joy as well as faith. I began to attend the Hythe Corps and found that joy plus a simple straight forward preaching of the glorious Gospel.

I knew they did not water baptise or celebrate the communion service, but I did not then fully understand why. However, with the joy and love I was experiencing along with unity and the Gospel preaching I became a soldier.

Now, of course, with this book I am a soldier who has gained understanding which I can fully accept. Furthermore I see that the book can provide a valuable teaching tool, both for new and not so new Salvationists.

Also, because it is written without bias, it will certainly give enquirers from other church backgrounds a clear understanding of the Army's biblical premise regarding the sacraments and allow them to make up their own minds.

Well done Captain Philip - I read your heart in your book.

Pauline Fidoe

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