Formula of Concord: Article VII – Of the Holy Supper

Abstract

Kenneth E. Bode’s paper explores Article VII of the Formula of Concord, focusing on the Lutheran doctrine of the Lord’s Supper in contrast to Sacramentarian views. Bode examines the theological divergence between Lutherans and figures like Philip Melanchthon and John Calvin, highlighting Melanchthon’s shift from Lutheran orthodoxy toward rationalism and Calvinistic interpretations. The paper traces the historical development of the controversy, including the Crypto-Calvinist movement and the publication of the Exegesis Perspicua, which prompted a strong Lutheran response. Bode outlines the content of Article VII, emphasizing the real presence of Christ’s body and blood in the Sacrament, the oral reception by all communicants (worthy and unworthy), and the rejection of symbolic or spiritual-only interpretations. The paper concludes with a structured summary of the Thorough Declaration, affirming the Lutheran position as scriptural, historical, and confessional. —Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)