Concerning Both Kinds in the Lord’s Supper – part 6
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: Luke 24:30–35
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Defense of the Augsburg Confession
They imagine that, in the beginning of the Church, it was the custom in some places that only one part was administered. Nevertheless they are not able to produce any ancient example of this practice. They cite the passages that mention bread, as in Luke 24:35, where it is written that the disciples recognized Christ in the breaking of bread. They also quote other passages concerning the breaking of bread. Although we do not seriously object if some interpret these passages as referring to the Sacrament, yet it does not follow that only one kind was given, since, according to the ordinary usage of language, the naming of one signifies the other.
Pulling It Together
When we speak of breaking bread, we mean that we take the time to enjoy a meal. In the Church, this may simply refer to a fellowship meal. Yet, in certain Scriptures it could be understood as being something more than a potluck: perhaps a common meal during which Holy Communion was received. Some interpret “the breaking of bread” in the New Testament as being the Lord’s Supper if it was done on the Lord’s Day. This still follows the meaning of having a meal together, but in this case that gracious sustenance is Holy Communion.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for helping me remember you in the receiving of your body and blood. Amen
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Author
Rev. Dr. Mark E. Ryman has served as Pastor for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Salisbury, NC, since 2021. Previously, Pastor Ryman served congregations in North Carolina and Ohio, as well as a call to specialized ministry with Sola Publishing.
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