speratus said: It is not our repeating the words of institution that invokes the presence of Christ but His word alone and the promise in His word. In your ideal communion service, what words or prayers (if any) would immediately precede the distribution and reception of the body and blood of Christ?
Perhaps a short sermon explaining the meaning and purpose of the Lord's Supper followed by a discussion if any of the communicants are still unsure about anything. Then everyone could pray to God individually and silently (rather than have the priestly pastor act as a prayer mouthpiece to God for the entire congregation). But these are only suggestions, they cannot be mandated.
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speratus said: Do you have any suggestions for changes to the baptismal formula in Matt. 28:18-20?
My suggestion is that we stick to the topic of the Lord's Supper.
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speratus said: It is a poor steward who delegates his duties to others.
Not if the steward is only appointed to oversee duties, rather than perform them, as is the case with biblical elders.
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speratus said: "This do" includes the active participation of a steward whom Christ has chosen to administer His Supper.
"This do" includes everything that is mentioned in the passages containing "This do" and nothing else. And if you read the passages where "This do" refers to the action of the Lord's Supper, you will see that there is no mention of anyone playing a ministerial role other than Jesus Christ. Unless you think that church elders stand in the place of Christ, then your statement is not supported by the passages containing "This do."
