These are shocking verses but nevertheless they are there for a reason.
“So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup. For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves. That is why many among you are weak and ill, and a number of you have fallen asleep. But if we were more discerning with regard to ourselves, we would not come under such judgment. Nevertheless, when we are judged in this way by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be finally condemned with the world.”
1 Corinthians 11:27-32
Perhaps today you will be taking communion at church. It will certainly be done in a different way to this church and yet the principle is the same, in your worship you will be looking to what Christ has done on the cross.
These verses have often been used in a way to keep people from the table and not draw them to it.
So what does Paul teach us?
- The unworthy manner is to have harmed a brother or sister in Christ in some way and still to go ahead and worship Christ, who gave grace to you.
- When the Church comes together it enters into a fearful place of the presence of God. If we mock Him because we are hurting a member of the church then He may respond in hurting us. Shocking but it’s there!
- Communion is not for those who are perfect but who recognise they are sinful but are doing something about it whether that be repentance or reconciliation.
Today don’t go to church flippantly. But approach with a deep respect for the grave and mercy that Christ has given to you and expects you also to give to others.
Missions Paul 