Which is it?
Is what?
The manner or mode of Jesus’ blood given in the Supper.
Individual cup OR Common cup.
Let’s look at Scripture.
The Gospels include “cup” (singular) in the Words of Institution.
“And He took a cup…” (Matt. 26:27, etc).
But there is no reference in Scripture that the Church should use only one cup. Yes, Jesus did, but there is no command by Jesus to use only one cup.
The power and validity of the Sacrament is not the cup—the manner or mode of distribution – -but in Jesus’ Word spoken and the four elements present: Bread/Body and Wine/Blood.
The unity that is assumed and is given in the Sacrament all comes from Jesus’ Word and His own Body and Blood.
Again, the mode of distribution of the Blood is not the requirement; it’s only the means.
Our Synod’s doctrinal committee writes: Does it matter whether a congregation uses individual glasses or the common cup to distribute the consecrated wine? In the matter of a specific Scriptural mandate, either method of distribution…is acceptable. Many Christians prefer the use of the common cup because of its symbolism as representative of the oneness of the body of Christ—the church—and because there is reason to believe that Christ used this method of distribution. Any decision in this area is to be marked by Christian liberty and charity. (Theology and Practice of the Lord’s Supper, May 1983).
The elders and pastors at Trinity will start offering a Common Cup as an option the weekend of October 19 and 20.
Why? Many have requested this option in their Christian freedom.