Consuming the Word

The New Testament and the Eucharist in the Early Church

By: Scott Hahn

Narrated by: Sean Runnette

From the bestselling author of The Lamb's Supper and Signs of Life comes an illuminating work that unlocks the many mysteries of the Catholic sacrament of the Eucharist.

Long before the New Testament was a document, it was a sacrament. Jesus called the Eucharist by the name Christians subsequently gave to the latter books of the Holy Bible. It was the "New Covenant," the "New Testament," in his blood. Christians later extended the phrase to cover the books produced by the apostles and their companions; but they did so because these were the books that could be read at Mass.

This simple and demonstrable historical fact has enormous implications for the way we read the Bible. In Consuming the Word: The New Testament and the Eucharist in the Early Church, Dr. Scott Hahn undertakes an examination of some of Christianity's most basic terms to discover what they meant to the sacred authors, the apostolic preachers, and their first hearers. Moreover, at a time when the Church is embarking on a New Evangelization he draws lessons for Christians today to help solidify their understanding of the why it is Catholics do what Catholics do.

Anyone acquainted with the rich body of writing that flows so inspiringly from the hand and heart of Dr. Hahn knows that he brings profound personal insight to his demonstrated theological expertise,” writes Cardinal Donald Wuerl in the foreword to the book. Consuming the Word continues in that illustrious tradition. It brings us a powerful and welcome guide as we take our place in the great and challenging work in sharing the Good News.

Not surprised

As all with all of Hahn’s work, another great read. So full of rich info I have to listen to it several times!

Wow

You want to understand the scripture and love Jesus more regardless of faith listen to this

Unveiling Emmaus

The Emmaus Road experience of the risen Jesus unveiling the Messianic mission that culminated in His self disclosure through the breaking of the bread, has long been an irresistible mystery to my Protestant brain. Father, grant me Your revelation that burns within my spirit and soul to be completely nourished with You, Bread of Life. Amen.

Concise and clear

Would you listen to Consuming the Word again? Why?

I will listen to "Consuming the Word" again. As a student of the author, I find this book to be a concise explication of the relationship between the Word and the Eucharist.

What about Sean Runnette’s performance did you like?

Mr. Runnette's rendering of the text is gentle and reverent. I found his tone to be relaxing and, in some sense, he seems to withdraw himself and let the text speak for itself - an art in and of itself. Mr. Runnette's voice, cadence and inflection are ideal for spiritual and theological books. I hope to encounter him again through the recorded word.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

It is one of the few books which upon finishing made me want to go back to the beginning and start over again.

wish Scott Hahn was reading it

he is great at reading his own books. I miss his voice and passion in this one