The Divinity of the Bread and Wine

"When you look at the Sacred Host you understand how much Jesus loves you now. "  - Mother Teresa

Among all of the benefits that we as believers enjoy, none compare to our privilege of obeying the Lord and observing the Lord's Supper. Naturally, because of the importance of these commands many have a lot to say in regards to this. Let's examine some of their views.

There are four outstanding historic opinions that immediately come to mind. First, the Roman Catholic view, otherwise known as transubstantiation. This is derived from a combination of two words, trans (over) and substantia (substance).

The two words together mean "to change into another substance." As applied to the doctrine of the Lord's Supper, this means that the elements bread and wine are transformed into the body and blood of Jesus Christ.

Next, is the Lutheran view which is more familiarly known as consubstantiation. Consubstantiation means "the actual substantial presence and combination of the body of Christ with the Eucharistic bread and wine." This doctrine rests on the thought that Christ's body and blood are actually present through some miraculous, or mysterious way in the sharing of the bread and wine.

Following this is the "grace with" view.  Here, meaning that when one takes the bread and wine, he or she receives grace through the taking that is not available otherwise. And finally, there is the symbolic view which is supported by many Evangelicals.

In this concept, it is held that the elements (bread and wine) are symbols of the broken body and shed blood of Christ. A closer look at the symbolic view, specifically the root word "symbol," brings to light some important information about it.

Pertaining to the ordinance of the Lord's Supper, it means the elements are placed in such a way that one may know. Thus, by taking the word "symbol" into careful consideration, the use of synonyms such as attribute or type may actually clarify its meaning.

They indicate something visible representing something invisible, or intangible. The elements (bread and wine) are outward signs of something spiritual. For example, a cross is a "symbol" of the death of Jesus, which effected or produced salvation; explaining why some see the cross as a symbol of their salvation.

In the end, it doesn't matter what one's doctrine of the Lord's Supper may be, it is a wonderful means of worship. Every time a child of God worships in this way, the death of Jesus should take on greater meaning. Thereby, helping us to grow in appreciation and love for what He did on our behalf.

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:26;  Luke 22:19; Acts 2:42; Matthew 26:29; John 6:47-50

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for giving Your life freely for our salvation. Amen

May your weekend be blessed!

Bibi