Lord’s Day 25
Q66. What are sacraments?
Sacraments are special signs that you can see, given by God to help us understand the promise of the gospel more clearly, and to put his seal on that promise. And God's gospel promise is this: he forgives our sins and gives us eternal life by grace alone, because of Christ's one sacrifice on the cross.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Genesis 17:11
Deuteronomy 30:6
Romans 4:11
Matthew 26:27–28
Acts 2:38
“Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.”
Hebrews 10:10
“By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
What are sacraments, and what do they help us understand more clearly?
- 2
Why do you think God gives us things we can see and touch to go along with his promises?
- 3
When have you received a gift that reminded you of someone who loves you?
Illustration
When a soldier goes overseas, he might give his child a ring to hold onto. The ring does not replace the father, but every time the child looks at it, the ring says: he loves you and he is coming back. Sacraments work like that. They are signs God gave to say: my promise to forgive you through Christ is real.
Application
The next time you see a baptism or the Lord's Supper at church, watch carefully. Ask God to use what you see to strengthen your trust in his promise of forgiveness through Jesus.