Chapter 68 — Explanation of the passage quoted above

*Explanation of the passage quoted above (Ch. 62., As a plea...)*

Having solved these difficulties, we see clearly that the tradition of the Church concerning the sacrament of the altar contains nothing impossible to God, who can do all things.

Nor is Church tradition incompatible with the words of our Lord spoken to those disciples who appeared to be shocked at this doctrine: The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life (John 6:64). By these words he did not intend to say that his real flesh is not given to be eaten by the faithful, but that it is not given to be eaten carnally. That is to say, it is to be consumed not piece-meal under its proper species like other meats, but spiritually, and not as we are used to partake of other meats.