In this engaging Week 20 Bible Study from Mount Pleasant Global Methodist Church in Vancleave, Mississippi, Rev. Ron McDougald leads a deep dive into the topic: What are the sacraments? Drawing from pages 124-125 of the book Profoundly Christian, Distinctly Methodist (a transformative study rooted in the Global Methodist Church's catechism and Wesleyan theology), the session explores the sacraments as powerful means of grace—tangible expressions of God's real presence, symbols of our faith profession, and pledges of God's love in Christ.
Key highlights include:
- Scripture readings from Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11, and especially the Institution of the Lord's Supper in Matthew 26:26-28, Mark 14:22-24, and Luke 22:19-20.
- A rich discussion on how Jesus transformed the Passover meal into the new covenant through His body and blood—shifting from remembrance of deliverance from Egypt to forgiveness of sins for all through Christ's sacrifice.
- The radical, intimate nature of Holy Communion (the Lord's Supper) as more than a symbol: a sacramental moment of receiving Christ's healing, forgiveness, and grace.
- Personal stories, humor, and group reflections on frequency of communion, worthiness, openness of the table ("whosoever will"), and why sacraments foster unity in the church (referencing 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 and Ephesians 4:5-6).
- Contrasts with different Christian traditions (Catholic, Episcopal, Baptist, Lutheran, Pentecostal) and emphasis on the high view of the sacraments in Methodist practice.
Whether you're exploring Methodist doctrine, seeking a deeper understanding of baptism and communion, or reflecting on grace through tangible acts of worship, this session offers profound insights, scriptural depth, and heartfelt conversation.
Book Reference: Profoundly Christian, Distinctly Methodist (Week 7 focus: The Sacraments)
Bible Study Series: Part of an ongoing study through foundational Global Methodist beliefs.
Church: Mount Pleasant Global Methodist Church, Vancleave, MS
