More than a symbol
Many evangelical churches today see the Lord’s Supper as just a symbolic act. The bread and wine help us remember what Jesus did on the cross, following his words: “Do this in remembrance of me.” This view, known as Memorialism, became popular during the Reformation in Switzerland — through leaders like Zwingli and Bullinger. They rejected the idea that the bread and wine actually become the body and blood of Christ.
Roman Catholics, Lutherans, and Orthodox churches believe in the Real Presence—that Christ is physically present in the Lord’s Supper. Even if they explain it differently, they all believe that Christ is actually present in the bread and wine.
John Calvin also believed in the Real Presence but offered a different way of explaining it. He didn’t think the bread and wine physically changed, but he did believe Christ is spiritually present when we receive them with faith. According to him, the experience is real and meaningful—not just a memory exercise. Believers feed on the body and blood of Christ as they are spiritually united with Jesus’ physical presence in heaven.
Although Memorialism is common in many churches today, some leaders are starting to question whether it’s enough. They’re asking, “Is the Lord’s Supper just about remembering, or is something more happening?”
Living Memorial
Jesus introduced the Lord’s Supper during the Jewish Passover—a meal that was all about remembering how God saved his people from Egypt. So when Jesus said, “Do this in remembrance of me,” it linked Israel with the Exodus and their living identity as the people of God. The Passover Feast was more than an act of remembrance. It pointed to the on-going activity of God.
The bread and wine point back to Jesus’ sacrifice, but they also carry forward his promises. This isn’t just about us remembering him—it’s also about trusting that God remembers us and responds when we approach him in faith.
The Lord’s Supper isn’t just a symbolic reminder. It’s a spiritual event. When we take part sincerely, it becomes a way for God to fulfil his promises and to confirm his grace in our lives.
Spiritual Experience
The Lord’s Supper is a multi-layered spiritual experience. It works simultaneously in three
directions:
- Inward, it helps us focus our hearts on Jesus. As we remember his sacrifice, the Holy
Spirit draws us closer to God. We feel his love and peace. It builds our faith and trust
in him. - Outward, it strengthens our connection with other believers. We’re reminded that
we’re one family, united in Christ. As we share in the meal, we grow in love and
fellowship. - Upward, we commune with God. It’s not just us reaching for him—he also draws
near to us. As we worship and give thanks, he blesses us through the bread and wine,
bringing us more deeply into all that is represented on the Table.
So yes, we remember Christ—but God is also doing something. The Lord’s Supper is a
powerful moment where heaven touches earth. It’s not just symbolic—it’s spiritual,
relational, and deeply real.