1 Corinthians 11:23-34

Instructions on communion:

First, Paul reminds us that he didn't make this up. This act of communion was given to us by Jesus Christ during the third cup of the last supper. If you have ever attended a Passover meal, you might remember that the third cup is the "Cup of Redemption." Knowing that God is in control, that He has a plan that began at creation fills me with a warm, satisfied feeling. See, Passover & the Seder meal had been celebrated by the Jews every year since the exodus of Moses. Every Jew in the world traveled to Jerusalem to partake in this feast of remembrance. The third cup reminded the Jews that God had redeemed them from slavery in Egypt, but it also looked forward to the time of the Messiah, who would redeem them from the world. Jesus fulfilled this redemption on the cross & during that Last Supper He told His disciples that this cup now signified His works. Ah, God is good & perfect. His words, His commandments all lead us toward the big picture. It makes me stand in awe.

But, getting back to Paul's teaching: Every time we take communion, we are to remember Christ's redeeming work on the cross. We are also to look forward to His return and the completion of the Scriptures. However, Paul reminds us that we must take communion with reverence and remembrance. Never allow communion to become just another thing you do in church. Don't let it become rote and boring. Rather let it remind you over and over again of what Jesus Christ has done for you. "Do this in remembrance of me." Remember His death, remember His resurrection, remember that He sent the Holy Spirit to guide and protect you, remember that He will return again. Remember . . .

In verse 30-32 speaks of judgment. Does this mean God will eternally judge us if we fail to treat communion with the respect it deserves? Does it mean we need to make sure that we are perfect & without sin when we take communion? No. It simply means, if you take communion for granted, if you begin to treat it as just another thing to do - those in authority over you will call you on it. And honestly, most of us don't like others pointing out our faults, even when it's needed. So, if you don't want someone else to correct you, pay attention & correct yourself. If communion begins to feel rote & boring, correct your thinking yourself. Don't rely on others to do it for you.

Finally, at a church common meal, don't pig out & leave others without food and drink. This must have been an issue in the Corinthian church. So, Paul tells them to show some restraint & respect. He will deal with the remaining issues when he visits them next.