Consubstantiation is a theological term often associated with Lutheranism to describe the belief that, during the Eucharist, the body and blood of Christ are present “in, with, and under” the elements of bread and wine. Unlike transubstantiation, the bread and wine remain physically unchanged but coexist with Christ’s real presence.
Key Concepts:
- Real Presence:
- Christ’s body and blood are truly and substantially present in the Eucharist, not merely symbolic (Luke 22:19-20).
- Coexistence of Elements:
- The bread and wine are not transformed but coexist with the body and blood of Christ.
- Rejection of Transubstantiation:
- Consubstantiation differs from the Catholic view, which holds that the bread and wine’s substance changes entirely into Christ’s body and blood.
Theological Context:
- Martin Luther’s View:
- Luther rejected the term consubstantiation, though it is often used to describe his teachings.
- He referred to the “sacramental union”, emphasizing the mystery of Christ’s real presence without explaining how it occurs.
- Biblical Foundation:
- Luther emphasized taking Jesus’ words, “This is My body” (Matthew 26:26), literally.
Criticisms:
- Complexity:
- The coexistence of Christ’s body and blood with bread and wine is a difficult concept to explain philosophically.
- Ecumenical Tensions:
- Consubstantiation has been a point of division between Lutherans and Catholics, as well as between Protestants with symbolic views.
Written by AI. A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.