WORSHIP IN THE EARLY CHURCH

Oscar Cullmann wrote that the eating of the Lord’s Supper and the presence of the Holy Spirit were the two indispensable features of Christian worship in the early church. Both were manifestations of the exalted Jesus among his people. He served as host of the Supper and ministered through the Spirit. The church thus participated in the “already” aspect of salvation history as it anticipated the “not yet” eschaton. Likewise, when we join Christ in a festive meal and in ministry, worship is transformed into a transcendental experience. In these few hours each week heaven touches earth.