---
title: "Chapter 27: Of the Sacraments | RP Testimony"
description: "Chapter 27 of the RP Testimony: Of the Sacraments. Read the 2026 RPCNA Constitution text, Scripture proofs, and the corresponding Westminster Confession chapter."
canonical: "https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-27-sacraments/"
source: "https://ctkrp.org/assets/rpcna-constitution-2026.pdf#page=101"
---

# Chapter 27: Of the Sacraments | RP Testimony

1. The sacraments are signs of our covenant union with Christ and His Church, and our common profession that we are owned by Him. They are to be observed under the direction of the elders in a service of worship in which members of the congregation are present. 1 Cor. 11:23-24; 1 Cor. 10:21; Acts 2: 42; Num. 9:14.

2. The administration of the sacraments is to be accompanied by the reading and preaching of the Word. Acts 2:42; Acts 20:7.

3. We reject the view that sacraments are mere symbols and not means of grace.

4. We reject the view that the sacraments are not necessary in the Church.

## For kids — a study explanation (ages 10–13)

These explanations are separate from the official text above.

Words to knowSignSomething visible that points to a spiritual reality.SealA confirmation of God’s covenant promise to believers.CovenantA relationship God establishes with promises and responsibilities.RejectsSays that a teaching is wrong and must not be accepted.SacramentsBaptism and the Lord’s Supper: signs and seals Christ gave his church to point to his covenant promises.

### Testimony 27.1

Sacraments mark our covenant union with Christ and his church. Elders should oversee them in congregational worship, rather than as isolated private acts.

[Read original point 1 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-27-sacraments/#point-1)

### Testimony 27.2

Scripture reading and preaching should accompany the administration of the sacraments.

[Read original point 2 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-27-sacraments/#point-2)

### Testimony 27.3

The Testimony rejects treating sacraments as only symbols. God also uses them as means of strengthening his people in grace.

[Read original point 3 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-27-sacraments/#point-3)

### Testimony 27.4

The Testimony rejects treating the sacraments as optional or unnecessary for the church.

[Read original point 4 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-27-sacraments/#point-4)

### Talk about it

Why do baptism and the Lord’s Supper matter?

### Discuss and remember

Read the chapter together, then choose a question to talk about.

- What are the two sacraments Jesus gave His New Testament church?
- How do outward signs point us to God’s promises?

#### Scripture to remember

Matthew 28:19

[Read the memory passage in our Bible reader →](https://ctkrp.org/bible/?q=Matthew%2028%3A19)

Read the passage in context. Explain it in your own words, then practice one short phrase at a time. Review it together during the week.

#### Put it into practice

Ask an adult how baptism and the Lord’s Supper direct us to Christ.

[Find help for family worship](https://ctkrp.org/family-worship/)

Original source: [2026 RPCNA Constitution](https://ctkrp.org/assets/rpcna-constitution-2026.pdf#page=101)

## Related reading

- [Baptism and the children of believers](https://ctkrp.org/learn/topics/baptism/)
- [Westminster Shorter Catechism · Question 91: How do the Sacraments become effectual means of salvation?](https://ctkrp.org/shorter-catechism/question-91-how-do-the-sacraments-become-effectual-means-of-salvation/)
- [Westminster Larger Catechism · Question 161: How do the Sacraments become effectual means of salvation?](https://ctkrp.org/larger-catechism/question-161-how-do-the-sacraments-become-effectual-means-of-salvation/)
- [Westminster Confession · Chapter 27](https://ctkrp.org/confession/chapter-27-sacraments/)
- [Chapter 26](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-26-communion-of-saints/)
- [Chapter 28](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-28-baptism/)

Canonical page: https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-27-sacraments/