How do ordinances and sacraments differ?

TL;DR:

Some use the terms "ordinance" and "sacrament" interchangeably. However, an "ordinance" is a religious rite commanded by God with largely symbolic significance whereas a "sacrament" is understood to confer grace, for salvation or sanctification, upon the participant.

what does the bible say?

Ordinances and sacraments differ primarily in their theological significance and purpose. Evangelical Protestants view the ordinances of baptism and Communion as symbolic acts commanded by Jesus (Matthew 28:19–20; Luke 22:14–23) and observed by believers as expressions of faith and obedience. They commemorate key aspects of the Christian faith. In contrast, sacraments, as viewed in some traditions like Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy, are believed to confer or mediate God's grace directly to participants. They are seen as essential for salvation and are often accompanied by doctrinal teachings on their efficacy in spiritual life. While the ordinances or sacraments are valuable, they cannot save us.

from the old testament

The ordinances and sacraments spoken of today are largely practices established by Christ or in the church period.

from the new testament

The Bible teaches that salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Jesus Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8–9). Sacraments or ordinances do not save.
Jesus instituted two ordinances: baptism (Matthew 28:19–20) and the Lord’s Supper (Matthew 26:26–29; Mark 14:22–25; Luke 22:14-23).
Baptism is the public expression of a person's faith in Jesus Christ. It is designed for believers as a one-time action that takes place following belief in Jesus. Matthew 28:19 teaches, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."
Communion is a repeated activity that exists for all believers in Jesus Christ. Luke 22:19–20 teaches, "And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, 'This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.' And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, 'This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.'"

implications for today

Both baptism and Communion were specifically ordained and commanded by Jesus Christ. These activities were practiced by the apostles and were universally used in the early church. Because baptism and Communion are the only two rituals that were used by Jesus, the apostles, and early church, these are the only two sacraments or ordinances held by most Protestant churches. Neither provides salvation.

Roman Catholicism includes five additional sacraments—confirmation, confession, marriage, holy orders, and anointing of the sick. While many Protestants question some of the specifics of these practices, particularly as understood and performed by the Roman Catholic Church, they are not necessarily wrong practices. Clearly Protestants perform marriage ceremonies and uphold the value of marriage. Some Protestant churches practice confirmation, and all would value the spiritual education of youth. Many Protestants confess sin to one another, not to a priest. Protestants also pray for the sick, and some anoint them with oil. Most pastors go through an ordination process. The difference is an understanding of the importance and result of these practices. Evangelical Protestants would not consider any of these five things an ordinance or sacrament, and none contribute to salvation.

The ordinances of baptism and Communion continue to be important today in the lives of Christians worldwide. As we celebrate new life in baptism and remember the Lord's death in Communion, we connect with the ancient traditions of Jesus, the apostles, and the early church in worshiping the Lord as He has commanded.

understand

Ordinances (like baptism and Communion) symbolize faith and obedience. Sacraments are believed by some traditions to convey grace.
Two ordinances were directly commanded by Jesus. The Roman Catholic Church acknowledges seven sacraments.
Only Christ saves, by grace and faith. Ordinances and sacraments do not save but express Christian faith.

reflect

How does participating in the ordinances of baptism and the Lord’s Supper deepen your personal relationship with Jesus Christ?
What do ordinances like baptism and Communion mean in terms of expressing your faith and obedience to Jesus' commands?
How does understanding the difference between ordinances and sacraments impact your understanding of salvation through grace and faith alone?

engage

The Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, and some other church groups use the term "sacraments" to refer to an act that conveys God's grace to an individual. Traditionally, seven sacraments exist. These include baptism, confirmation, communion/Eucharist, confession, marriage, holy orders, and anointing the sick. In the Roman Catholic tradition, these sacraments are considered necessary for salvation. Most Protestant churches use the term "ordinances" for baptism and the Lord's Supper. This distinction is used to help highlight that these activities are not connected to salvation.
How do ordinances (like baptism and Communion) contribute to our spiritual growth and community life as believers?
What are the theological implications of viewing ordinances as symbolic acts versus sacraments that convey grace?