The word catechesis is an unfamiliar term to many, and it has its origins in ancient Greek theater. In the Christian church context it means oral instruction. The process of catechesis is readily seen in the familiar passage concerning the Lord’s Supper. Jesus was the catechist (instructor) speaking to Paul, the catechumen (student), who in turn became the instructor to the Corinthian students. As a catechist greater than Abraham (the Father of the Jewish Faith), Jesus established the Cup of the New Testament, the Eucharist or Communion Meal as a symbol of the New Covenant of His Death, Burial and Resurrection for our sins. The Lord’s Supper supplies us with the spiritual dimension of understanding of:
The Catechesis Of Unity. In the first Communion observance, they all drank from one cup, symbolizing unity. As all nations of the world share the one bloodline of Adam, all Christians share the bloodline of the last Adam, Christ. We are one people of faith, redeemed through Christ’s sacrifice as members of one body.
The Catechesis Of Ministry. Jesus commissioned two of His disciples to prepare the Passover. There was work involved with preparing the meal and to place of the meal. In a similar manner, the Apostles established preparation for the Communion Meal. This symbolizes that Christians are to work in preparation for the Communion, all working in ministry for the furtherance of God’s Kingdom as He directs each.
The Catechesis Of Identity. The Passover was the ceremony reminding Jews of their freedom from Egyptian slavery. The Communion observance reminds Christians they are freed from slavery to sin. Whom the Son sets free is free indeed: free from the slavery to lust, pornography, fornication, drugs, lying, stealing, gossiping, gambling and drunkenness. Our new identity in Christ makes us free. Jesus slaved on the Cross to purchase our salvation; the least we can do is show up for His Supper.