Having a Right Head and Heart Towards the Ordinances
Mack Tomlinson teaches that believers must approach the ordinances of baptism and the Lord's Supper with both a correct biblical understanding and a sincere, humble heart to truly honor Christ and grow in faith.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of having a right head (correct understanding) and a right heart (proper attitude) in observing the ordinances of baptism and the Lord's Supper. It highlights the need to elevate our view of these perfect ordinances given by Christ, focusing on union with Him and the atonement. The sermon warns against having a wrong heart attitude, such as trusting in the ordinances for salvation or observing them casually, and calls for a reverent, humble, and joyful observance of these sacred practices.
Sermon Outline
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I
- Introduction to the importance of ordinances
- The perfection of baptism and the Lord's Supper
- The need for a right head and right heart
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II
- Biblical foundation of baptism and the Lord's Supper
- Key scripture passages explaining ordinances
- Christ as the giver of the ordinances
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III
- Meaning and significance of baptism
- Baptism as a public testimony and union with Christ
- The role of the Holy Spirit and repentance
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IV
- The Lord's Supper as a perpetual memorial meal
- Symbolism of bread and cup
- The importance of heart attitude in partaking
Key Quotes
“The perfect things that are in the earth right now are the Bible, the gathering together of the worship of God, because that's a perfect thing to do.” — Mack Tomlinson
“Baptism is a picture of union with Jesus Christ in His death and in His resurrection.” — Mack Tomlinson
“The giver of the ordinances is not the church. The giver of the ordinances is the head of the church, the Lord Jesus Christ.” — Mack Tomlinson
Application Points
- Approach baptism and the Lord's Supper with a humble and reverent heart to honor Christ properly.
- Understand the biblical meaning behind the ordinances to deepen your faith and worship experience.
- Recognize baptism as a public declaration of your new life in Christ and live accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to have a right head and right heart toward the ordinances?
Having a right head means understanding the biblical truths about baptism and the Lord's Supper, while having a right heart means approaching them with humility, love, and reverence.
Why is baptism considered a one-time ordinance?
Baptism symbolizes a believer's union with Christ in His death and resurrection, marking a definitive spiritual transformation that happens once upon conversion.
Does baptism wash away sins?
No, baptism is an outward symbol of an inward spiritual reality; it does not cleanse sin but publicly testifies to the believer's faith in Christ who forgives sins.
Why is the Lord's Supper called a perfect meal?
Because it was instituted by Christ Himself as a perfect, ongoing memorial of His body and blood given for the remission of sins, meant to be observed with the right heart and understanding.
Can someone be baptized immediately after conversion?
Yes, the New Testament shows baptism often follows immediately upon profession of faith without requiring advanced sanctification.