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And to think that repeating a certain set of words somehow invokes the presence of Christ in the observance of the sacrament is superstitious (I'm not sure if this is what you believe).

When Holy Scripture is read in a Christian assembly, it is God speaking to us not a man. When Christ says "This is My body", it is His body. We must firmly believe His word and the promise in His word.


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How does this verse support your view that only elders may administer baptism and the Lord's Supper?

There may be exceptions in cases of necesssity but that is outside the scope of this thread. 1 Cor 4:1 and Acts 20:28 describe the same office. Acts 20:28 says how a man is placed in the office and describes the pastoral function; 1 Cor. 4:1 makes the man a servent and describes other functions of the office.

On second thought, cases of necessity may not beyond the scope of this thread. The word must be continually preached and the lambs of Christ baptized even when there no called minister available. The person performing these functions, in essence, becomes a minister. However, the Supper should be delayed until the congregation has a steward of the mysteries.

Last edited by speratus; Mon Jan 17, 2005 8:47 AM.