Savoy on the Sacraments – Part 2

In this second paragraph, Savoy continues it’s general teaching on the Sacraments of the church, from a biblical, reformed viewpoint.

Savoy:

There is in every sacrament a spiritual relation, or sacramental union, between the sign and the thing signified; whence it comes to pass that the names and effects of the one are attributed to the other.

So, baptism does not wash away our sins – but it signifies that our sins have been washed away. The Lords Supper is not a sacrifice – but it signifies Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. Sometimes therefore, the Bible uses terms that cross over between the sign and the thing signified – so close is the relationship between the two realities.

For example, in Acts 2:38…
And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Circumcision is referred to as ‘The Covenant’ in Gen. 17:10. The bread is referred to as ‘the Body of Christ’ in Matt. 26:26, baptism is referred to as ‘the washing of regeneration’ in Titus 3:5. This is simply because they represent and confirm spiritual things to believers.

To be continued!