An Explanation of Luther's Small Catechism · Martin Luther
THE SACRAMENTS.
WHAT A SACRAMENT IS. A sacrament is a holy ordinance, instituted by Christ, in which invisible heavenly gifts are bestowed upon us through the use of visible earthly elements. HOW MANY THERE ARE. In the sense in which we use the word "Sacrament" there are only two holy ordinances to which the name may be applied; namely, Baptism and the Lord's Supper. For these are the only two which possess the three essentials of a sacrament: 1. The Command of Christ; 2. The Use of Earthly Elements; 3. The Communication of a Heavenly Gift.[11] OLD TESTAMENT TYPES. The rite of Circumcision, practised in Old Testament times, was a type of Baptism; and the Passover was a type of the Lord's Supper. THEIR PURPOSE. The sacraments have been given to us in order that they might bring a special comfort to our souls, in addition to the comfort which we find in God's Word. For the Grace of God which is offered to all men in the Word, is brought and sealed to each believer _individually_ in the sacraments. My baptism assures me that all the blessings of Christ's redemption are meant for _me_: and the Lord's Supper assures me that Christ's body and blood were given and shed for _me_ for the remission of _my_ sins. FAITH NECESSARY. Without faith, no one can obtain any benefit from the sacraments. But he who believes receives the heavenly gifts offered in them, and has the blessed assurance that he is a child of God and an heir of heaven.
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