Ordinances
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should ever repeat Christ’s act, that all may see that true service calls
for unselfish ministry.—
The Signs of the Times, May 16, 1900
.
To Be Often Commemorated—In this last act of Christ in par-
taking with His disciples of the bread and wine, He pledged Himself to
them as their Redeemer by a new covenant, in which it was written and
sealed that upon all who will receive Christ by faith will be bestowed
all the blessings that heaven can supply, both in this life and in the
future immortal life.
This covenant deed was to be ratified by Christ’s own blood, which
it had been the office of the old sacrificial offerings to keep before the
minds of His chosen people. Christ designed that this supper should
be often commemorated, in order to bring to our remembrance His
sacrifice in giving His life for the remission of the sins of all who will
believe on Him and receive Him. This ordinance is not to be exclusive,
as many would make it. Each must participate in it publicly, and thus
say: “I accept Christ as my personal Saviour. He gave His life for me,
that I might be rescued from death.”—
The Review and Herald, June
22, 1897
.
Experience: Dealing Faithfully With an Interested Minister—
Sabbath morning, when the church at _____ celebrated the ordinances,
Brother _____ was present. He was invited to unite in the ordinance
of feet washing, but said he preferred to witness it. He asked if par-
ticipation in this ordinance was required before one could partake of
communion, and was assured by our brethren that it was not obligatory,
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and that he would be welcome to the table of the Lord. This Sabbath
was a most precious day to his soul; he said that he had never had a
happier day in his life.
He afterward desired an interview with me, and we had a pleasant
visit. His conversation was very interesting, and we had a precious
season of prayer together. I believe that he is a servant of God. I gave
him my books Great Controversy, Patriarchs and Prophets, and Steps
to Christ. He seemed much pleased, said he wanted all the light he
could get in order to meet the opponents of our faith. He was baptized
before leaving for his home, and will return to present the truth to his
own congregation.—
Letter 23a, 1893
.
Not Close Communion—Christ’s example forbids exclusiveness
at the Lord’s supper. It is true that open sin excludes the guilty. This the
Holy Spirit plainly teaches. But beyond this none are to pass judgment.