1. Baptism

Biblical Foundation:

• Jesus was baptized (Matthew 3:13–17)

• He instructed His followers to baptize (Matthew 28:19)

• Acts 2:38; Romans 6:3–4; Acts 8:36–38
   

Types of Baptism:

• Full immersion (most biblically modeled)

• Pouring or sprinkling (acceptable in special cases—Acts 10:47–48)
   

Home/Nature Baptism Guide:

1. Confession of Faith:
   Candidate affirms belief in Jesus (Romans 10:9–10)

2. Simple Words:
   “We baptize you in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.” (Matt. 28:19)

3. Submersion or Pouring:
   In a pool, tub, river, or ocean

4. Prayer of Blessing:
   Lay hands (if appropriate) and pray for their spiritual walk
    

Special Consideration:

• In many regions, lay leaders or family members can perform baptism

• No legal license is required, but keep a written record for testimony or future church membership

• Always ensure physical safety and privacy during natural water baptisms.
  
   

2. Weddings

Biblical Foundation:

• Marriage instituted by God (Genesis 2:24)

• Jesus blessed a wedding at Cana (John 2:1–11)

• Ephesians 5:22–33 (marriage as Christ and the Church)
   

Simple Home Wedding Ceremony:

1. Opening Prayer

2. Reading Scripture (e.g., 1 Cor 13, Ruth 1:16–17)

3. Exchange of Vows
   Can be traditional or personal

4. Exchange of Rings (optional)

5. Declaration of Marriage

6. Prayer of Blessing

7. Signing of Documents (if applicable)
    

Legal Considerations:

• In most areas, only legally licensed ministers can perform weddings that are legally binding

• House church leaders should partner with licensed officiants or act as ceremonial witnesses only

• In some countries, a civil registry marriage must be done separately.
   

3. Healing Prayers & Anointing

Biblical Foundation:

• James 5:14–15 – “Is anyone sick? Call the elders... anoint with oil.”

• Mark 6:13 – “They anointed many with oil and healed them.”

• Isaiah 53:5 – “By His wounds we are healed.”
   

Procedure for Home Anointing:

1. Ask permission and ensure spiritual readiness

2. Use clean olive oil (symbolic only; not magical)

3. Place a small amount on the forehead or hand

4. Pray for healing, peace, and God’s will

5. Invite others to pray, if appropriate
    

Theological Balance:

• Healing is not guaranteed; we trust in God’s sovereignty

• Avoid sensationalism or guilt when healing doesn’t occur

• Refer to medical care when needed—faith and medicine can work together
   

4. Funerals & Memorials

Biblical Foundation:

• Jesus wept at Lazarus’ death (John 11:35)

• Paul taught about resurrection hope (1 Thess. 4:13–18)

• Ecclesiastes 3:1–2 – “A time to be born and a time to die”
   

Home or Small Setting Ceremony:

1. Opening Prayer

2. Scripture Reading (e.g., Psalm 23, John 14:1–6)

3. Sharing Memories

4. Words of Comfort (Short Devotion)

5. Prayer of Thanks and Hope

6. Song or Moment of Silence

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 Burial and Cremation Guidance

Burial or cremation must follow all applicable local laws and be conducted through licensed funeral service providers. We strongly recommend that families consult with a local funeral director and local authorities to ensure proper legal procedures are followed. This helps avoid any delays or complications and ensures that all necessary permits and documentation are handled appropriately.​

• House churches can offer memorial gatherings before or after official services.
   

5. Baby Dedication or Naming

Biblical Foundation:

• Hannah dedicated Samuel to the Lord (1 Samuel 1:27–28)

• Jesus was presented at the temple (Luke 2:22)
   

Simple Dedication Format:

1. Opening Prayer

2. Parent(s) Affirm Faith & Desire to Raise the Child in Christ

3. Scripture (e.g., Deut. 6:5–7; Prov. 22:6)

4. Prayer of Blessing over the Child

5. Optional: Community Commitment ("We will support you")

Note:

• Not a replacement for baptism (if practiced later)

• No legal requirements—purely spiritual blessing
   

6. House Blessings

Biblical Foundation:

• Jesus sent disciples to offer peace to homes (Luke 10:5)

• Joshua 24:15 – “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord”
   

Simple House Blessing Ceremony:

1. Walk through each room with prayer and Scripture

2. Anoint doorposts with oil or place a cross

3. Bless all who live and visit there

4. Optional: Play worship music or sing together

When to do it:

• After moving in, renovation, or spiritual renewal
   

7. Commissioning & Ordination

Biblical Foundation:

• Jesus commissioned His disciples (Matt. 28:18–20)

• Paul and Barnabas were commissioned by prayer and laying on of hands (Acts 13:2–3)

• Timothy received gifts through laying on of hands (1 Tim. 4:14)
   

For Lay Leaders:

1. Recognize character and faithfulness (1 Tim 3)

2. Pray and fast (Acts 13)

3. Lay hands and affirm their calling

4. Declare the role: teaching, leading, serving

5. Encourage accountability and community support
    

Special Consideration:

• Legal status (e.g., "ordained minister") varies by region

• Use caution when commissioning leaders for roles involving legal authority (weddings, funerals, counseling)

• You may affirm spiritual calling without claiming legal license
   

 Legal & Professional Boundaries Summary