On the question of using only one cup in the communion

Matthew 26:26-29

Context

1. Jesus took the cup – gave thanks – gave it to them

2. Jesus said – Drink ye all of it (How do you drink a cup?)

3. This is my blood (Is Christ’s blood represented in the cup OR in the contents of the cup (fruit of the vine)?)

4. I will not drink of this fruit of the vine. (Clearly Jesus was talking about the contents, not the container.)

Figure of speech

Metonymy = figure of speech in which one thing stands for another.

Examples:

1. Hired hand = hired a person (not just a hand)

2. 500 head of cattle = 500 whole cows (not just heads)

3. Here the cup = the contents of the cup (Fruit of the vine)

Conclusion:

1. It is clear that Jesus intended to focus not on the container, but the contents.

2. If only one cup is to be used – How are Christians around the world to partake when only one cup is used?

3. If you say one cup in each church – you have the church using tens of thousands of cups around the world.

4. Study 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 – This passage mentions “one bread”. Must all Christians around the world partake of the same bread?

5. Study Luke 4:17 – This passage mentions the Bible as “the book” (singular). Do you object that there is more than one copy of the Bible?