I thought Dr. Joersz gave a very helpful reply in a recent answer to the question of a pastor communing himself in a worship service. The practice is an adiaphoron, i.e., it’s neither forbidden nor commanded in Scripture. An example by itself does not establish doctrine or church practice, but still it bears some weight as to the wisdom of certain practices in the church. It appears obvious when Jesus instituted the Lord’s Supper He did not self-commune.
The called pastor is Christ’s representative to the congregation and their representative to Christ in intercessory prayer. This prophetic and priestly function of the pastoral office is symbolized by the pulpit and altar. When the pastor faces the people he acts as Christ’s representative to the people. When he faces the altar he is their representative to God.
Rev. Harlan C. Wendler
Springfield, Ill.
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