An ordinance is a practice established by Christ for His church to observe.
Most evangelical churches recognize two ordinances: baptism and the Lord's Supper.
Ordinances do not impart saving grace, but they visibly proclaim and reinforce spiritual realities taught in the gospel. Baptism identifies believers with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection, while the Lord's Supper proclaims His sacrifice and anticipates His return.
Because ordinances are given by Christ to His church, they are acts of obedience, worship, and public testimony.
See in Scripture: Matthew 28:19–20; Luke 22:19–20; Acts 2:41–42; 1 Corinthians 11:23–26