QUESTION:
3/18/2010: Could you please discuss the importance of using actual bread and actual wine in the Eucharist. I interact with several evangelicals who would say it doesn't really matter what the elements are, grape juice and oyster crackers are just fine. "That's the way it's always been" is a good enough answer for me, but what about someone who that wouldn't be good enough for? |
ANSWER:
It is a matter of (1) obedience (2) conformity with apostolic practice (3) symbolism. (1) because the Scriptures say artos and that can only mean bread. (2) because there is no record of anyone using anything else and therefore no precedent. The apostolic and biblical words of institution of the eucharist use the word artos and only apply to bread.(3) because is must come from wheat grains which are a symbol of the many into unity. I would also add that the Orthodox are the last - literally - who use communion bread made by human hands, not mass produced in a factory. There is also the element of common sense, if bread is absolutely not available (which is quite rare), them a close substitute would be used. The same applies to wine of course. |
