Couple questions...

[ByTheSpirit]

What is the official Church of the Nazarene position on baptism? I mean, I know its a sacrament but what does that mean exactly? Do you encourage new converts to be baptized immediately?

Also

How do most of you here view spiritual gifts? I'm not talking about someone standing in front of the congregation screaming and yelling in a charismatic way, but true gifts of healing, prophecy, etc. Gifts that build up the church, not individuals and their pride. How are those viewed in the CotN or even Methodist churches in general?

I did attend a CotN last Sunday and it was refreshing. The focus on personal holiness and obedience is something I've lacked hearing for far too long.

 

[Maid Marie]

What is the official Church of the Nazarene position on baptism? I mean, I know its a sacrament but what does that mean exactly? Do you encourage new converts to be baptized immediately?

Also

How do most of you here view spiritual gifts? I'm not talking about someone standing in front of the congregation screaming and yelling in a charismatic way, but true gifts of healing, prophecy, etc. Gifts that build up the church, not individuals and their pride. How are those viewed in the CotN or even Methodist churches in general?

I did attend a CotN last Sunday and it was refreshing. The focus on personal holiness and obedience is something I've lacked hearing for far too long.

A sacrament is an outward and visible sign of inward and spiritual divine grace. It was something that was ordained by Christ.

The manual allows for both infant baptism and for believer's baptism. I have only heard of one pastor who pushed for baptism soon after coming to faith in Christ. I would say that he probably regrets doing that in a few circumstances because of the lack of maturity from those few folks. On the other hand, I have heard of some folks going years before being baptized. It tends not to be stressed as much as in other denominations.


We believe that God has given his children spiritual gifts. Though, speaking in tongues/ having a "prayer language" is not encouraged. Since we are a "holiness church" you'll find such sermons [on personal holiness and obedience] to be common. You will most likely hear a sermon on the fruits of the Spirit more than on the gifts of the Spirit.