How does John 6:55 emphasize the reality of Christ's presence in communion? Setting the Stage John 6 unfolds in the synagogue at Capernaum after Jesus feeds the five thousand. The crowd wants more bread; Jesus redirects them to the Bread of Life—Himself. Verse 55 captures His climactic claim: “For My flesh is real food, and My blood is real drink.” (John 6:55) Literal Language That Demands Attention • “Real” (alēthēs) = genuine, true, not symbolic only. • “Food” and “drink” link to physical sustenance, underscoring tangible provision. • By pairing flesh and blood, Jesus echoes sacrificial language (cf. Leviticus 17:11) and anticipates the cross. How This Speaks to Communion • Matthew 26:26-28—“This is My body…This is My blood.” The Upper Room words mirror John 6:55, connecting the Bread of Life discourse to the institution of the Lord’s Supper. • 1 Corinthians 10:16—“Is not the cup of blessing…a participation in the blood of Christ? Is not the bread…a participation in the body of Christ?” Paul treats the elements as a true sharing (koinōnia) in Christ Himself. • 1 Corinthians 11:27-29—Unworthy reception equals guilt “concerning the body and blood of the Lord,” implying Christ’s real presence, not mere symbolism. • The Passover precedent (Exodus 12) required literal eating of the lamb whose blood spared Israel; Jesus, the Lamb of God (John 1:29), must likewise be received. Dimensions of Christ’s Presence • Personal—Believers don’t simply recall a past event; they meet the living Christ who nourishes faith. • Covenantal—Blood language signals the new covenant (Luke 22:20), binding God to His people through a concrete act. • Continuous—“Real food…real drink” conveys ongoing sustenance; communion repeatedly renews dependence on Christ’s atoning work. Pastoral Implications • Approach the Table with expectancy; Christ Himself meets His people. • Treat the elements with reverence; they signify and convey what Jesus calls “real.” • Let communion deepen assurance; the same flesh crucified and blood shed now feeds and cleanses believers. |
    |