Treatise on the Sacrament of the Eucharist

Peter Martyr Vermigli's treatise on the Eucharist emerged from the intense sacramental controversies of the mid-sixteenth century, when Reformed theologians were articulating their understanding of the Lord's Supper against both Roman Catholic transubstantiation and Lutheran consubstantiation. Writing in 1549 while serving as Regius Professor of Divinity at Oxford, Vermigli sought to provide a comprehensive Reformed theology of the Eucharist that would clarify the nature of Christ's presence in the sacrament and address the pastoral concerns surrounding communion practice.

Vermigli argues that Christ is truly present in the Eucharist, but spiritually rather than corporally, received by faith rather than by mouth. He distinguishes between the sign (bread and wine) and the thing signified (Christ's body and blood), maintaining that while the elements remain unchanged in substance, they serve as effective instruments through which believers receive Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit. The treatise carefully navigates the tension between affirming real spiritual nourishment through communion while rejecting any physical transformation of the elements. Vermigli grounds his argument in extensive patristic citations, particularly from Augustine and Chrysostom, demonstrating that his position aligns with early church teaching. He addresses practical questions about worthy reception, the relationship between faith and sacramental efficacy, and the proper administration of communion.

This work became influential in shaping Reformed sacramental theology and was particularly valued by English Reformers during the Elizabethan settlement. Vermigli's careful scholarship and irenic tone helped establish a middle path between what many saw as extremes of Catholic materialism and Zwinglian memorialism. Who should read this: Students of Reformed theology and sacramental doctrine will find Vermigli's systematic approach invaluable, though readers seeking devotional material rather than theological argumentation should look elsewhere.