The Boundless Daily: Day 6 – Ordinances of the Church

Welcome back to Day 6 of The Boundless Daily.

Today we're talking about something super practical: the ordinances of the church.

If you've heard that word and thought, "What's an ordinance?", you're not alone.

Let's break it down together.

What's an Ordinance, Anyway?

An ordinance is an outward action that shows an inward reality.

It's something Jesus told us to do.

Not a ritual for ritual's sake.

But a meaningful act that reminds us of what He did and who we are because of Him.

Think of it like this: when you wear a wedding ring, it's a visible sign of an invisible commitment.

Ordinances work the same way.

They're visible expressions of spiritual truths.

The Assemblies of God recognizes two ordinances: baptism and communion.

Both were commanded by Jesus.

Both are designed to help us remember, celebrate, and proclaim what Christ has done.

And here's the beautiful part: they're for everyone.

No matter where you are, what shift you work, or how far you feel from "traditional church."

Baptism: Your Public Declaration

Baptism is the first ordinance.

It's your public way of saying, "I'm following Jesus."

It doesn't save you, only Jesus does that.

But it's a powerful step of obedience and identity.

When you go under the water, it symbolizes being buried with Christ.

When you come up, it represents rising to new life in Him.

Romans 6:4 says it this way: "We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life."

That's not just theology.

That's your story.

Baptism Happens in Community

Here's something important: baptism isn't a solo act.

It's designed to happen within the local church.

Even if you're watching online, baptism is a moment to connect with a physical church community.

For us at Boundless, we're rooted in Memphis.

But we know many of you are scattered across time zones, working night shifts, or living in places where gathering isn't easy.

That's okay.

Baptism can still happen.

You can work with a local pastor, find a church near you, or connect with a faith community in your area, even if you worship with us online most of the time.

It's about both personal faith and community witness.

You declare your faith.

The church celebrates with you.

If you're ready to take that step and need help finding a place or planning your baptism, reach out.

We're here to help you connect.

Communion: Remembering Together

The second ordinance is communion, sometimes called the Lord's Supper.

It's the practice of sharing bread and wine (or juice) to remember Jesus' death and celebrate His return.

Jesus started this at the Last Supper.

He broke bread and said, "This is my body, given for you."

He lifted the cup and said, "This is my blood, poured out for you."

Then He added: "Do this in remembrance of me" (Luke 22:19-20).

Communion isn't magic.

It's a memorial.

A moment to pause, reflect, and say thank you.

Digital Communion Is Real Communion

Now, here's where things get interesting for an online church.

Some people wonder: "Can you really take communion if you're not in a physical building?"

Our answer: absolutely.

Communion is about your heart, not your location.

If you're at home with bread and juice, connecting online with a community of believers, and remembering Jesus' sacrifice, that's communion.

God sees your heart.

He knows your faith.

Whether you're working third shift, caring for a loved one at home, or living somewhere unsafe to gather, you can still participate.

Communion isn't about the building.

It's about the body of Christ.

And that body includes you.

Why Ordinances Matter

You might be thinking, "Okay, but why does this really matter?"

Great question.

Here's why:

1. They keep us connected to Jesus' story.

Every time you remember your baptism or take communion, you're anchoring yourself in the gospel.

2. They remind us we're part of something bigger.

Ordinances aren't solo activities. They tie us to the global church: past, present, and future.

3. They're acts of obedience.

Jesus said to do these things. When we do, we're showing we trust Him.

4. They build faith.

Repeating these practices over time deepens your understanding and strengthens your relationship with God.

Practical Steps for You

So what does this look like in real life?

If you haven't been baptized:

Start praying about it.

Ask God to show you the right time and place.

Then reach out: whether to us or a local church near you: and take that step.

If you want to participate in communion:

Join us for a Sunday Live Worship service.

Grab some bread and juice before the service starts.

When we share communion together online, participate fully.

You're not watching from the sidelines.

You're part of the family.

If you're curious but unsure:

That's okay.

Ask questions.

Reach out.

We're here to walk with you, not rush you.

A Word for the Scattered and the Searching

If you're reading this and you work nights, care for someone at home, or live far from a traditional church: this is for you.

Boundless Online Church exists because we believe church isn't just a Sunday morning building.

It's the people of God, gathering wherever they are, whenever they can.

We're rooted in Memphis, but we reach the world.

And we believe that baptism and communion are for everyone: no matter your schedule, location, or situation.

You're not second-class because you can't attend in person.

You're fully part of the body of Christ.

Let's Talk

Ordinances aren't complicated.

They're simple, beautiful acts that connect us to Jesus and to each other.

Baptism declares who you are.

Communion reminds you why you're here.

Both are invitations to go deeper.

If you have questions, need prayer, or want to talk about taking one of these steps, we're here.

Text us at 1-901-213-7341 (message & data rates may apply). Not for emergencies.

Or visit our Prayer Wall and share what's on your heart.

And if today's post helped you, don't keep it to yourself.

Share it with someone who might need to hear it.

Subscribe to stay connected as we continue through The Boundless Daily series.

We're building something beautiful here; one day, one truth, one person at a time.

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Boundless Online Church is a ministry of FA Memphis.