No it was telling them to not be deceived into 'believing' that the teachings of Jesus was edible.
Early Christians universally believed in the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist, the belief that the bread and wine become the body and blood of Christ. This understanding is evident in the writings of early Church Fathers like
Ignatius of Antioch,
Irenaeus, and
Justin Martyr, who all affirmed that the Eucharist was the flesh and blood of Christ. They viewed it not as a mere symbol, but as a true and real participation in the sacrifice and life of Christ.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Early Church Fathers' Testimonies:
Early Church Fathers, such as Ignatius of Antioch, Irenaeus, Justin Martyr, Hippolytus, and Tertullian, all affirmed the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist.
Ignatius of Antioch:
In the first century, Ignatius of Antioch emphasized that the Eucharist was the flesh of Jesus Christ and used this belief to combat Docetists who denied the reality of Christ's body. He also connected the Eucharist to the unity of the Church and its life in Christ.
Irenaeus:
Irenaeus, writing in the second century, explicitly stated that the bread and wine become the body and blood of Christ.
Justin Martyr:
Justin Martyr, in the mid-second century, also believed that the Eucharist was the flesh and blood of Jesus Christ.
No Disputes:
There are no records of disputes among early Christians regarding the nature of the Eucharist, with no one denying the Real Presence.
Not Just a Symbol:
Early Christians understood the Eucharist not as a mere symbol, but as a participation in the body and blood of Christ, often described as the "medicine of immortality".
Sacrificial Understanding:
The early Church also viewed the Eucharist as a sacrifice, connecting it to the sacrifice of Christ and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies