Seven Sacraments (Teachings of the Orthodox Church) Christianity. Orthodoxy. Catholicism. Sense of life. Articles for Christians.
Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you                Pray without ceasing                For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured unto you                And we know and have believed the love which God hath in us. God is love; and he that abideth in love abideth in God, and God abideth in him                Through many tribulations we must enter into the kingdom of God                Verily I say unto you, Except ye turn, and become as little children, ye shall in no wise enter into the kingdom of heaven                Verily I say unto you, It is hard for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of heaven                It is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God               
English versionChristian Portal

Christian Resources

Vote!

 
Seven Sacraments (Teachings of the Orthodox Church)
   

QUESTION:

I'd just like to ask a question about the sacraments. Were all seven sacraments around at the beginning of the church, or were they established centuries later?

ANSWER:

Yes, the sacraments were around at the beginning of the Church, although they may not have been neatly "packaged" as the "Seven Sacraments" at the time. Each sacrament, according to some, finds its counterpart in Scripture:

Baptism -- the Baptism of Our Lord

Chrismation -- the Descent of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost

Confession -- the various accounts of individuals repenting and receiving forgiveness

The Eucharist -- the Mystical Supper and accounts of the "breaking of the bread" in Acts, etc

Holy Unction -- various healings performed by Christ Himself

Ordination -- the call of the disciples

Marriage -- the Wedding Feast at Cana

While Scripture does not categorize these as "sacraments," it is clear that the needs that each of the sacraments addresses has its counterpart in the ministry and mission of Our Lord.

Of course, the Orthodox picked up the number seven from the West at a later date, and there are many other needs addressed by Our Lord which also serve to bring us into the presence and grace and holiness of God.






Published in January 2011.









Read more Christian articles

Recommend this page to your friend!






Read also: