Reformed Presbyterian Minutes of Synod 1995 - Rparchives.org

REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 157adapted both in content and delivery to his audience. He should seek the aidof the Holy Spirit that he may declare the whole counsel of God.20. The worshipers in the fact and manner of their attention have a partin preaching. They should attend upon it "with diligence, preparation, andprayer, receive it with faith and love, lay it up in their hearts, and practiceitin their lives" (Shorter Catechism, A. 90). A sermon outline, either printedor emphasized as part of the sermon during its delivery, may help thecongregation follow and remember the sermon. Individuals who wish tointerject "Amen" or other spontaneous signs of approval during the sermonshould have this freedom if it does not become disruptive.21. The pastor or someone authorized by the session may at some pointin the service give a message especially suited to children.22. The sacraments are a part of the public worship. See Chapter 3 .777i? Benediction23. The public worship should be concluded with a benediction,pronounced upon the people by an ordained elder. The common form is:"The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and thecommunion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen" (II Cor. 13:14).Scripture supplies several suitable benedictions (for example, Heb. 13:20-21,I Cor. 1:3; Eph. 6:23-24; II Thes. 3:16).24. The people should wait quietly and reverently to receive thebenediction. The bestowal of the blessing of God the Father, Son and HolySpirit upon the people is a high and holy duty and privilege of an ordainedelder. The benediction is a pronouncement, not a closing prayer. It shouldnot become a mere formality for dismissing the congregation. Worshipersmay either look at the one pronouncing the benediction or bow their headsin reverent submission to God.Chapter 3: THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE SACRAMENTSI. The sacraments of the church under the New Covenant are Baptismand the Lord's Supper. These are to be administered according to Christ'sappointment, and only by teaching elders of the church or by othersauthorized by the church to meet extraordinary circumstances. They arenormally to be administered in the regular place of worship and in connectionwith a service of worship.Baptism2. Since baptism symbolizes entrance into Christ and His people, aperson is to be baptized only once. Its symbol is water, which, having beenset apart by prayer for sacramental use, may be applied by sprinkling orpouring though immersion is acceptable.