For the Sacrament is not founded upon people's holiness, but upon God's Word. Just as no saint on earth, indeed, no angel in heaven, can make bread and wine be Christ's body and blood, so also no one can change or alter it, even though it is misused. The Word by which it became a Sacrament and was instituted does not become false because of the person or his unbelief. For Christ does not say, "If you believe or are worthy, you receive My body and blood." No, He says, "Take, eat and drink; this is My body and blood." Likewise, He says, "Do this" (i.e., what I now do, institute, give, and ask you, take). That is like saying, "No matter whether you are worthy or unworthy, you have here His body and blood by virtue of these words that are added to the bread and wind." Note and remember this well. For upon these words rest all our foundation, protection, and defense against all errors and deception that have ever come or may yet come.
~BOC, LC, V, 16-19
Love this. And this is why it is merciful to practice closed communion. Whether we take to our benefit or to our detriment and judgment, we take the Lord's body and blood in/with/under the bread and wine.
ReplyDeleteAmen!
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