The Lord's Supper

Why are there so many different Christian denominations when we all have the same Bible? True, some Bibles include a few extra books, and some groups may use different versions of Scripture, but this hardly explains that tremendous diversity of doctrine and practice we see throughout Christendom. Most of these differences are not the result of different Bibles or different versions. Much of the disagreement is not over what the Bible says, it is over what the Bible means. Most Christians would agree that the words of Scripture are true and authoritative— but are divided over divining the meaning of those authoritative words.

Why are there so many different Christian denominations when we all have the same Bible? True, some Bibles include a few extra books, and some groups may use different versions of Scripture, but this hardly explains that tremendous diversity of doctrine and practice we see throughout Christendom. Most of these differences are not the result of different Bibles or different versions. Much of the disagreement is not over what the Bible says, it is over what the Bible means. Most Christians would agree that the words of Scripture are true and authoritative— but are divided over divining the meaning of those authoritative words. We must understand the difference between Scripture and theology. Scripture is what is written. Theology is the meaning of what is written. In "The Lord's Supper" we will examine the variety of traditions regarding Communion in light of the New Testament.

David Rodriguez founded Christian Fellowship in 1986 and Koinonia Bible College in 1991. He became the president of Therapon Institute in 2006. He currently presides over all three ministries. He has developed and taught over twenty-five Bible college courses. He has a master's degree in Christian counseling from Vision International and has a private counseling practice. David has always had a deep appreciation for the word of God and considers the Scriptures to be the supreme authority in matters of faith, morals, and doctrine. He brings this conviction to his writing, believing unapologetically that the Bible should be the basis for all revelation concerning God and His requirements for humanity. David was converted in 1970 out of the hippie lifestyle and became part of the "Jesus movement." He and his newly converted friend, Jeb Banashak, began house ministries to reach those still trapped in the drug culture. In 1972, he began teaching the Bible in a ministry called The House of Living Water in New Orleans and has taught the Scriptures ever since in Sunday School, youth meetings, home meetings, and on the radio. Now he is conducting seminars and teaching in his own church. His passion is to help people understand the word of God.