The Nature of the Sacraments (Sadler's Church Teacher's Manual)

The Nature of the Sacraments (Sadler's Church Teacher's Manual)

The Nature of the Sacraments is Section LII of The Church Teacher's Manual of Christian Instruction, Michael Ferrebee Sadler's 1872 expansion of the Church Catechism in question-and-answer form.

Summary

Sadler introduces the catechism's doctrine of the sacraments, especially the two sacraments ordained by Christ. He emphasizes outward sign, inward grace, divine institution, and the sacramental union of sign and gift.

Sadler's Text

Sadler's catechetical treatment of this topic is anchored in the statement, "I mean an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual GRACE GIVEN UNTO US, ORDAINED BY Christ Himself, as a means whereby we receive the same, and a pledge to assure us thereof." He further explains the section by saying, "To distinguish the two Sacraments ordained by Christ Himself from all other rites, such as Confirmation, or Ordination, which have the nature of Sacraments."

Theological Themes

• Sacramental sign and grace
• Divine institution
• Baptism and the Lord's Supper
• Means of grace

Scripture References

The following references are representative biblical texts used or implied in this section of Sadler's catechetical exposition:

• John 3:5
• 1 Corinthians 11:24-25
• John 6:47-71
• Genesis 9:13
• 1 Timothy 3:16

Anglican Context

This section belongs to Sadler's sacramental exposition of the Church Catechism. It is connected with the Prayer Book rites of Baptism and Holy Communion, and with the Anglican distinction between outward sign and inward grace. Sadler's treatment reflects nineteenth-century Church of England catechesis and should be read as a historical Anglican source alongside current provincial formularies and catechetical resources.

See Also

• The Church Teacher's Manual of Christian Instruction
• Sacrament
• Baptism
• Holy Communion
• Church Catechism