Dr. Timothy Tennent: Communion as a Spiritual Journey
Communion, or Eucharist, is one of the most ancient and defining practices of the Christian faith. Yet, in talking with Christians around the world, it seems that we have not always provided an adequate explanation of Communion, because historically, we have focused our arguments on what may or may not happen with the elements of this sacred meal, rather than what happens to the worshipers who come forward.
This article will focus on three (there are others) lenses through which we might help Christians understand the Eucharist. The three lenses show that when we take Communion, there is a “past” lens, a “present” lens and a “future” lens. Let’s look briefly at each of these.
Communion Past
The first Eucharist took place at the Passover. Therefore, it is a dramatic reminder of God’s deliverance of the people of God, not just remembering God’s rescue of his people out of Egypt, but our own greater deliverance out of the bondage of sin as well as the final judgment of eternal death.
We, of course, enter this amazing story of redemption through our baptism, but we look back and remember our baptism and our deliverance every time we come to the Table. So when Jesus “took, blessed, broke and gave” we remember that He has taken us out from our broken past, He has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in Christ, He has broken the power of sin in our lives, and He has given us to the world as living signs and seals of His redemptive power.
Communion Present
Communion also celebrates Christ’s presence with us at the Table right here and now. We accept the declaration of Martin Luther when he declared that at the Ascension of Christ, he rose from “here” to “everywhere.” This means that at the Ascension of Christ, He re-assumed his omnipresence and He can be present with us here and now. He has promised to meet us at the Table and, indeed, “wherever two or more are gathered in His name” (Matt. 18:20). Bob Stamps, a former dean of the Chapel here at Asbury Theological Seminary, used to say that “Jesus would never throw a party in His own honor, and then not show up!” We meet the real Presence of Jesus at the Table. This is why Wesleyans do not “fence the Table” but instead invite everyone forward, because the very act of coming forward and meeting Christ is a “means of grace” and can bring someone to a saving relationship with Jesus Christ.
When prisoners get released from prison, they are often asked what they are most looking forward to in their new life of freedom. The most common response is that newly released prisoners are looking forward to “a hot shower and a meal.” This is precisely what happens to those of us who have been set free from the imprisonment of sin and death. The Lord Jesus, through the gospel, gives us a shower (baptism) and a meal (Eucharist) as a sign of our new life in Jesus Christ.
Communion Future
The Lord’s Supper is also a sign of our future inheritance at the Return of Christ when God sets all things right and brings our deliverance into its full fulfillment. Our world is full of sin and fallen-ness, and we eagerly await the visible, bodily return of Christ. Paul himself testifies about this when he says in reference to the Lord’s Supper in I Cor. 11:26. “For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.” We look forward to the Blessed Hope of His Return and the great marriage supper of the Lamb. The Eucharist elements are like the hors d’oeuvres of that future Banquet. We take the bread and cup in anticipation of that day when we eagerly run to that greater Feast—when we sit down at Table with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. We will also sit down with sinners, prostitutes and the poor who have also been joyfully received at this wonderful Table of forgiveness and grace.
In conclusion, at the Lord’s Supper we look in three directions: past, present and future. This is why one of the great liturgical declarations embedded in the Eucharist is the statement: Christ has died (past), Christ is Risen (present), Christ will come again (future). All three directions are gloriously captured in that single declaration. So, brothers and sisters, let us keep the Feast—and keep it well.
The key ingredients of my childhood faith journey were prayer with my grandmother, fasting during lent, small group bible study, communion every Sunday, confirmation and baptism as well as other moments I had to testify and confess. These experiences were spiritual eye openers for me as a child and teenager. As I learn how to disciple others on this lifelong journey, I am continually brought back to these means of grace that shape all Christians across all branches and traditions but especially children. Thank you for holding on to the core values of our faith and writing about them. Remind us over and over lest we forget!
Dr. Tennent, I’m truly touched by your comments on what would happen to those who come to the Lord’s table. For the last 52 years in ministry ( 14 years in parishes, 20 years in the US Air force Chaplaincy and 18 years in health care ministry) I consider the Lord Supper as the most important part of the worship experiences. although I’m an United Methodist chaplain, I celebrated communion weekly with my congregations in the military. Worshippers were encouraged to take communion at the altar unless they are physically not able. Communion is the most
emotional and meaningful part of my worship experiences as well. Hope to see you again at the Fall’s President Retreat. I have a keen memory of the retreat took place two years ago at the Marriott in Lexington. I was able to visit with one my closed classmates who now retired in Lexington. During the retreat he had an emergency heart surgery. I was able to spend sometimes ministering to him and his wife.
Paul
Very inspiring and encouraging message on Communion. Thank you!!!
We do find grace at the “Table”, but shouldn’t those who participate already be believers? While it’s true that communion is not for only the members of a particular church or denomination. Should’t those who come at least already be believers in the finished work of Jesus at the cross?
This is simply put but fundamentally thorough.
The Presidents comments suggest that Holy Communion is a transforming experience of Christ in community. That it is for the lowest and dirtiest sinner. That it is timelessly relevant, connecting us with the Family of God through the ages.
I think churches should celebrate it better. Away with the dyed water and plastic wafers.
thank you for your commentary. I found it very useful and inspiring