Christian Focus

There are very few books I can recommend without a single caveat or reservation. Richard Barcellos' new book, The Lord's Supper as a Means of Grace: More than a Memory, is one of them. Writing in an incredibly clear, straightforward style (unlike so many other theological works these days), Barcellos spells out exactly what his aims are in this book: to demonstrate how the sacrament of the Lord's Supper is a means of grace to the faith of believers in Jesus Christ. He then proceeds to do exactly that, presenting arguments based on sound exegesis of several Scripture passages. He then turns to historical Reformed Confessions and Catechisms to show that he's not presenting a novel idea, but rather perhaps reminding his readers of what has often been forgotten. Key points include the meaning of "communion," how the Spirit applies Christ's work to our souls, and how prayer (also a means of grace) is crucial to our understanding of the sacraments.

I heartily recommend this book for the following people: students, teachers, pastors, Baptists who want to understand historic Baptist doctrine, PCA members, Roman Catholics, students of biblical Greek, bloggers, anyone who wants to understand the distinction between an "ordinance" and a "sacrament" (it's probably not what you think), and basically everyone else.

More than a mem'ry
Grace transcending time and space
All should read this book

Patrick McWilliams, ConfessingBaptist.com

This is a sound theological treatment on the doctrine of the Lord's Supper,the author clearly articulates in his book exactly how the Lord's Supper is a means of grace in unequivocal language, unlike other works that have been written which leave you frustrated, leaving the reader with more questions than answers. It is in this capacity the book will prove to be an excellent resource for students, ministers and laymen alike. I did not find myself having to ask what the author was trying to convey because the book followed sound logical methodology and language. It also provides meticulous exegetical support from Ephesians 3 as Dr Barcellos explains the role of the Holy Spirit as the express delivery agent who communicates the benefits of redemption to the believing recipient. You will not come away from this work disappointed as the author actually answers the subject matter, providing a satisfying scriptural approach to a subject that has caused much confusion.

Nathan McDonald - Scotland UK