When I teach evangelical college students about the practicalities of Communion, I’ll often begin with the Last Supper, with Jesus and the disciples, because it raises some straightforward questions. I’ll ask them: Should we obey Jesus? Should we celebrate the meal as he instituted it? Should we do what he said? Should we use what he used, eating what he ate and drinking what he drank?
Obviously, they respond—but then they catch themselves. On second thought, their churches don’t do that. And it occurs to them that they can’t quite offer an explanation why.
Some of their churches have taught them that the Communion elements don’t matter at all: Cheez-Its and Minute Maid will work in a pinch. Whatever’s on hand can do the job. Why be such a legalist? God doesn’t care. It’s about the intention of your heart.
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