Our Lord has given his people two sacraments–Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. He instituted them both for our benefit. The Westminster Shorter Catehism defines a “sacrament” with these helpful words,
Q. #92: What is a sacrament?
A. A sacrament is a holy ordinance instituted by Christ, wherein by sensible signs, Christ and the benefits of the new covenant, are represented, sealed, and applied to believers (#1).
(#1) Gen. 17:7, 10; Exod. 12; 1 Cor. 11:23, 26
Thus, when we receive the Lord’s Supper the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ is represented by the elements. Secondly, the promises and blessings of God are sealed in our hearts–taking on fresh meaning as we are urged to greater obedience to his commandments. Lastly, the benefits of the new covenant are applied to believers; such benefits as–assuance, courage, faithfu, love, and perseverance. Rejoice, then, that our Lord has give us sensible signs where we can be encouraged and strengthened. He has not left his people helpless. He loves us and he continues to reassure us that we belong to him.
[podcast]http://www.download.covenantfamilychurch.net/2008/mp3/2008_8_3_the_lords_supper_its_instititution_by_christ.mp3[/podcast]