7 December 2023

COMMUNION JUST A MEMORIAL OR A SPIRITUAL BANQUET?

By John Ollis

I have been regularly receiving what we call “Holy Communion” regularly for over 60 years, and recently have come to appreciate it more than at any time of my life.

The Reformers gave much time and prayer and study of the Scriptures on this very important truth, as they were all convinced the R.C. church,’s teaching of Transubstantiation (that the bread and wine literally become the Body & Blood of Christ) was totally wrong. Luther decided it was Consubstantiation, that the literal body and blood of Christ co-existed with the natural elements of bread and wine, this was rejected by most of the Reformers.

My perhaps limited understanding for many years was that Communion was simply a memorial (and reminder of the Lord’s death, but Calvin brought fresh light and understanding that has really been a blessing to me, now when I partake of the bread and wine.

In churches who embrace Calvin’s interpretation call Communion The Lord’s Supper, and it is an opportunity to deepen the “bond of love among Believers” and that the emblems (bread & wine) sure don’t change but the Lord’s real presence is evident and God’s people are nourished (eat spiritually) at this spiritual banquet.

There is no doubt that we should prepare our hearts before we come to church on Communion Sunday (and every day), and see Communion not only as a memorial to Christ’s death, but an invitation to dine at His Table and be spiritually fed and nourished as we partake.

Let me encourage you as you consider the next Communion Service, you especially prepare your heart before you attend, and go anticipating that you will be in a spiritual banquet.

I have simply shared my testimony today of my experience, and what I have seen Calvin taught, would you let me know, if this simple (and not theological blog) encourages you to make your next Communion Service more special than ever before,