Bible Quote by John Calvin
““For if we see that the sun, in sending forth its rays upon the earth, to generate, cherish, and invigorate its offspring, in a manner transfuses its substance into it, why should the radiance of the Spirit be less in conveying to us the communion of his flesh and blood? Wherefore the Scripture, when it speaks of our participation with Christ, refers its whole efficacy to the Spirit. Instead of many, one passage will suffice. Paul, in the Epistle to the Romans (Rom. 8:9-11), shows that the only way in which Christ dwells in us is by his Spirit. By this, however, he does not take away that communion of flesh and blood of which we now speak, but shows that it is owing to the Spirit alone that we possess Christ wholly, and have him abiding in us.””
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Institutes of the Christian Religion, 1559
The Spirit conveys Christ’s presence and power, surpassing physical symbols, yet both work together for full communion.
In simple terms: The Holy Spirit makes Christ live inside us, complementing the physical sacraments.
Key Takeaway
Seek the Spirit’s work alongside outward practices.
Themes
faith
spirituality
sacraments
Mood
contemplative
reverent
Type
theological
devotional
When to use this quote
- church worship
- personal prayer
- communion service
- spiritual study
Key Concepts
theology
Christology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance inner faith with outward rituals?
- What role does the Spirit play in your daily life?
A Different Perspective
Relying solely on symbols can miss the Spirit’s active presence.
![“[The Lord's Supper teaches that] Rituals are good, and they are instituted and used by God to 'connect' his people with him. We learn through ritual that the church is not just made up of individuals, but is a corporate body. It is not just about personal salvation, but a group of people, the…” quote by Peter Enns](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d4f/peter-enns-28232_church_the-lord-s-supper-teaches-that-rituals-a_787566.jpg)
