The Small Catechism – part 14
Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
Scripture Text: 1 Corinthians 11:22–26
Series: Lessons in the Lutheran Confessions
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From the Confessions: The Small Catechism
In conclusion, since the tyranny of the pope has been abolished, people are no longer willing to receive the Sacrament and reject it. Here again, exhortation is essential, but with this understanding: No one should be forced to believe or to receive the Sacrament. Nor should laws or places be established for it. Rather, preach in such a way that they desire the Sacrament of their own accord, without law, and as it were, compel us pastors to administer the Sacrament.
This may be accomplished by telling them it is a concern that whoever does not seek the Sacrament at least three or four times a year despises the Sacrament and is no Christian — just as he is not a Christian who does not believe or hear the Gospel. For Christ did not say, Omit this, or, Despise this, but, “Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me” (1 Corinthians 11:25). Truly, he wants it done, not neglected and despised. “Do this,” he says.
Pulling It Together: Some people think of Holy Communion as a sort of magic act: a specific incantation recited by an approved class of people. Others think of it as a legal act, something one must do in order to be right with God. In either case, Christ has been left out. For it is Christ who both speaks and acts in the Sacrament. The sacramental work has nothing to do with either officiant or recipients. It is Christ alone from start to finish. We do not satisfy God by our showing up. Rather, we celebrate the fact that it is Christ who satisfied his Father for us. We are merely remembering what he told us to do: receive God’s grace through his body and blood. “Often.”
Prayer: I remember you, Lord, and give you thanks. Amen.
Click here for resources to learn the Ten Commandments.
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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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