Slideshow image

ECO Presbyterians view the Lord's Supper as a sacrament where the Spirit unites believers to Christ, nourishing them through the symbolic elements of bread and wine to strengthen and transform them. 

THE LORD'S SUPPER

THE CONTINUING MARK OF BELONGING TO CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH
  • All Christians agree that the Lord's supper is important, yet it's interpretation separates many denominations.
  • Catholics believe in transubstantiation, that the elements are transformed into Christ's actually body and blood.
  • Lutherans believe in consubstantiation, that Jesus Christ is really present in, with, and under the elements. 
  • Many other denominations believe that Christ is not really present and we partake only to remember what Jesus did.
ECO PRESBYTERIANS BELIEVE
  • Jesus Christ is really, spiritually present in the meal, but not physically. This mystery is made possible by the Holy Spirit. 
  • The Lord's supper is a sign signifying the 1) value of Christ's death and resurrection and 2) the unity of believers.
  • The Lord's supper is a seal giving us the assurance that the promises of the New Covenant are ours by God's free gift.
  • The Lord's supper is a fulfillment of the Passover meal meant. 
A POINT OF COVENANTAL EXAMINATION
  • For the Church, the Lord's Supper is a sign and seal of inclusion in the forgiven, freed New Covenant community.
  • Therefore, we should only partake as baptized Christians who have professed faith in Christ. 
  • Beforehand, we should confess any ongoing sin, repent, and make sure we are right with all believers.
  • Then we can take the Supper knowing we are in right relationship with God and all of God's people.
SO WHAT ACTUALLY HAPPENS AT THE TABLE?
  • In partaking of the Supper, we are actually receiving anew and continually the life of Christ.
  • We are spiritually taken up to the presence of Christ to be with God and share in his life.
  • In spiritually standing in the throne room of God, we are united in humility with all other Christians.
  • In receiving Christ's body alongside Christ's Church, we are strengthened and encouraged to live truly human/divine lives.