What is the Lord's Supper primarily considered?

The Lord's Supper is primarily considered a sacrament within the context of Christian theology, particularly as outlined in the Westminster Shorter Catechism. A sacrament is understood as an outward sign instituted by Christ to convey inward grace. In the case of the Lord's Supper, it is a means of grace that signifies the spiritual nourishment and sustenance believers receive through faith in Christ.

This sacrament serves multiple functions: it commemorates Christ's sacrifice, symbolizes the believer's participation in the body and blood of Christ, and fosters fellowship among believers as they collectively partake of the meal. The emphasis on it being a sacrament highlights its sacred significance and the divine promise attached to its observance, distinguishing it from other concepts such as a mere community meal or historical event.

While the Lord's Supper can also be seen as a community meal that promotes unity among believers, and it can have historical significance relating to the Last Supper of Christ, its primary classification as a sacrament underscores its theological importance in the life of the church and individual believers.