Tuesday, June 10, 2008

The real Presence and Discerning the Body and Blood

I don't think we can discern the actual Body and blood of Christ in the Sacrament of the Alter. The question is, not whether we can discern the body of Christ physically, but whether we can discern the effects of the body of Christ. For instance, Medieval people could discern the effects of infection, but could not always discern the cause of infection. The only "empirical" evidence was the effects, not the cause. This did not cause them to deny the reality of infection, far from it. Through experience they even learned to mitigate the effects. Later in history, we learned more details about infection, that they are caused by bacteria or viruses. In other words, the cause of the infection was later "revealed" through investigation. So, in a like manner, the RP was revealed, not only in Christ's words of Institution, but by their effects on those who profaned the Sacrament. This is true even though, like bacteria and viruses, we cannot now see the Body and Blood of Christ with our senses. And like the "revelations" of science, God will reveal all things to us in his good time. But in the mean time, it is not correct to assert that we have no empirical evidence, what we have is enough evidence to believe, which should be sufficient this side of eternity.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

I don't have any evidence to believe in the real presence outside of Jesus' words.

I don't feel any different after I've had Holy Communion. I see no ill effects on my Christian brethren who do not believe in the real presence.

I trust that He is there, working His faith in me, forgiving my sins, and granting me life and salvation.

I do trust the Bible, I trust the words of my pastor, I trust most assuredly in the words of our Lord..."Take and eat, this IS my body. Take and drink, this IS my blood. Given and shed for you."

That is the only evidence I need.

Thanks!

- Steve M.

Anonymous said...

Everyone knows that the blood is to overcome the effects of sin. What is the body for ???
eating unworthily in scripture is all about "discerning the body" Maybe this means something else than saying "real presence". What if the blood covers sin and Christs flesh is for healing, BUT we dont discern this

have a look at this very short and scriptural book it is well worth it
https://www.josephprince.org/onlinestore/US/pc-1184-84-health-and-wholeness-through-the-holy-communion-softback.aspx

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