Introduction:

  1. The purpose of this study is to show that the Lord's Supper is the central part of the Christian's worship.
  2. The Old Testament prophets pointed forward to the death of Christ, all the New Testament writings center on His death, baptism is a picture of His death. It is only reasonable that His sacrifice should play a primary role in our worship.
  3. By a proper observance of this memorial feast each week, our appreciation of His sacrifice is increased. Our purpose in life as a Christian is reemphasized and our strength to resist temptation is renewed.
  4. It is essential in getting started right that I fully understand and appreciate the Lord's Supper.

A.    It was instituted by Jesus at the Passover (Mt 26:26-28). Elements: (Mt 26:17,29)

  1. Its purpose: To remember the Lord Jesus (1 Cor 11:23-25). It is a memorial to the sacrifice of His body and the shedding of His blood.
  2. It is a proclamation of His death; a reminder of His second coming. (1 Cor 11:26)
  3. It is also a symbol of the New Covenant (I Cor 11:25). Shows that we recognize the authority of Jesus through the New Testament.
  4. As we stand at this memorial, we look three ways:
    1. Past - To His death on the cross;
    2. Present - At the covenant under which we live today, whereby we are sealed;
    3. Future - Looking for and praying for His return.
  5. We also look inwardly to our own hearts, looking at the proper manner of observation. (1 Cor 11:27-29)
  6. This Scripture tells about our state of mind as we partake.
  7. The term "Unworthy" is an adverb, modifying the verb denoting action. Therefore this word has reference to the manner in which it is to be done, not to the "worthiness" of the individual.
  8. This has reference to our coming to the Lord's table in a careless or irreverent manner, with no intention or desire to commemorate the Lord's death. BEWARE\ The consequences are extremely serious.

B.     "This do in remembrance of Me" - How often should it be done?

  1. Do we have any indication as to the frequency of observance in the early church?
  2. In Acts 2:42, the Scriptures say they "continued steadfastly" - indicates something with regularity.
  3. In Acts 20:7, why did they come together? It was to "break bread".
  4. If the practice of the church here were wrong the Bible would say so.
  5. It most certainly is right to follow the example of early Christians. Compare "first day of the week" with "remember the Sabbath" of Ex 20:8.
  6. Everyone understands what the "first day of the week" means in 1 Corinthians 16:1-2.
  7. Some have objected to following this Bible example on the grounds that to do it so often will destroy its solemnity. It is said, "Do it quarterly instead of weekly".
  8. What if we were to apply this same reasoning to prayer, Bible study, etc?
  9. The Lord's Supper is a privilege; it is a time of strengthening for the child of God and is gravely needed.

C.    Who should partake of the Lord's Supper?

  1. We can find out "who" should by finding out "who" did!
  2. The church at Jerusalem. Those who were baptized (Acts 2:41-42). The church at Troas, Disciples (Acts 20:7). The saints at Corinth, the "Ye" is the church (1 Cor 1:1-2; 11:20).
  3. Conclusion: Those baptized, the disciples, the members of the church should partake.
  4. It is summed up by Jesus in Luke 22:29-30. The Lord's Table is in His Kingdom. Citizens of the Kingdom then have the right to partake of this privilege. Those who belong to the Lord's Kingdom by being "born again" (Jn 3:3-5).
  5. Does this mean non-Christians may not partake? Answer: It is not designed for them.  However, at the time of the Lord's Supper we are told to examine ourselves (specifically, the Christian- 1 Cor 11:28).

Conclusion:

Lets not take this privilege lightly, consider the consequences. Let’s take great care to insure we commune with Jesus the way that would please Him. (1 Cor 10:16-17)

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