Theology of the Church, Mentor's Guide, MG03

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T H E O L O G Y O F T H E C H U R C H

A P P E N D I X 1 7

The Lord’s Supper: Four Views Rev. Terry G. Cornett

Transubstantiation Consubstantiation

Reformed

Memorialist

Presbyterian and other Reformed Churches, Episcopalians

Baptists, Mennonites, Pentecostals

Groups

Roman Catholic

Lutheran

Key Person

Thomas Aquinas

Martin Luther

John Calvin

Ulrich Zwingli

Christ is not literally present in the elements since Christ’s body is in heaven. Christ is spiritually present and at work in the partaking of the elements through the Holy Spirit when received in faith. As the elements are received in faith, the partaker receives spiritual nourishment which strengthens the soul, is brought close to the presence of Christ and has a renewed experience of God’s grace.

After being consecrated by the priest, the bread changes into Christ’s body and the wine changes into Christ’s blood so that Christ is present in the elements themselves Spiritual food is given to the soul which strengthens the participant spiritually and cleanses them from venial sins. Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is made present anew at each mass.

The elements do not change but Christ is actually present in, with, and under the elements of bread and wine

Christ is not present in the elements either literally or spiritually.

Presence of Christ

Christ’s command is obeyed and Christ’s death is commemorated so that the partaker is reminded of the benefits of salvation accomplished by his sacrificial death. Love for God is renewed through the remembering of his love for us.

Sins are forgiven and the new covenant promises are reconfirmed. Unless the elements are received in faith, the sacrament has no benefit.

What Takes Place

John 6.53-58 Matt. 26.26 1 Cor. 10.16

Matt. 26.26 1 Cor. 10.16

John 6.63; 16.7 Col. 3.1

Luke 22.19 1 Cor. 11.24-25

Key Verses

Term Used

Sacrament

Sacrament

Sacrament

Ordinance

Church Leaders (Clergy or Laity)

Who Presides

Church Leaders (Clergy or Laity)

Priest

Ordained Minister