Podcast Summary: The Westminster Shorter Catechism with Sinclair Ferguson

Episode: Question & Answer 96
Date: February 13, 2026
Host: Ligonier Ministries
Guest: Sinclair Ferguson

Overview

This episode delves into Question 96 of the Westminster Shorter Catechism: "What is the Lord’s Supper?" Sinclair Ferguson explores the theological meaning, spiritual significance, and practical implications of the Lord’s Supper as a central sacrament in Christian life, focusing on how it spiritually nourishes believers and fosters growth in grace. The discussion encourages listeners—whether pastors, teachers, or parents—to lead others in understanding and receiving the "solid food" of Scripture as experienced in the Lord’s Supper.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Defining the Lord’s Supper

• Catechism Answer Explored:
  • "The Lord's Supper is a sacrament wherein, by giving and receiving bread and wine, according to Christ's appointment, His death is showed forth..."
  • Sinclair highlights how the Supper is an act that remembers and proclaims Christ’s atoning work.
• Symbolism and Participation:
  • The bread and wine are not just symbols but are part of Christ’s appointed way for believers to participate spiritually in His body and blood.
  • Ferguson: “The Supper draws us into the very heart of the Gospel, reminding us that Christ gave Himself for us. It’s a meal that preaches.”

Spiritual Nourishment vs. Physical Reception

• Faith, Not Carnality:
  • The Catechism makes clear the Supper is not a physical eating of Christ’s body and blood ("not after a corporal and carnal manner"), but by faith.
  • Ferguson: “The benefit is not mechanical, but spiritual—apprehended by faith. It’s not about magic; it’s about communion.”
• Spiritual Growth in Grace:
  • Through the Supper, believers receive “spiritual nourishment and growth in grace.”
  • Ferguson notes the Supper isn’t just a remembrance but also a means by which the Lord strengthens faith.

Teaching and Discipleship

• Role of Leaders and Parents:
  • The episode emphasizes the importance of pastors, teachers, and parents in guiding others to approach the Lord’s Supper with discernment and faith.
  • Ferguson: “We help others savor the solid food of Scripture when we patiently explain these basics and pray they see Christ at the center.”

Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Sinclair Ferguson:
  • "It’s a meal that preaches." (01:02)
    (On how the Lord’s Supper visually and sensorially proclaims the Gospel each time it is observed)
  • "The benefit is not mechanical, but spiritual—apprehended by faith. It’s not about magic; it’s about communion." (02:15)
    (Clarifying the nature of participation in the Supper)
  • "We help others savor the solid food of Scripture when we patiently explain these basics and pray they see Christ at the center." (03:45)
    (Encouraging listeners to disciple others thoughtfully regarding the Lord’s Supper)

Important Timestamps

• [00:01] – Opening: Declaration of Question 96 and Catechism answer
• [01:02] – The Lord’s Supper as a ‘meal that preaches’
• [02:15] – Explaining spiritual reception by faith
• [03:45] – The essential role of teaching and guiding others toward deeper understanding

Conclusion

Sinclair Ferguson’s meditation on Question 96 of the Westminster Shorter Catechism underscores the Lord’s Supper as both a proclamation of Christ’s sacrifice and a vital means of spiritual growth for believers. The Supper is not a mere ritual, but a spiritual feast, accessible by faith, that nourishes Christians and unites them more deeply to Christ and His benefits. The episode calls on Christian leaders to carefully instruct others so that all may fully grasp and rejoice in the Lord’s Supper’s profound significance.