Sunday, June 26, 2016

Abuse of Lord’s Supper


Picture Credit: https://schreiberscribbles.files.wordpress.com/2015/02/bread-72103_1280.jpg

Most Christians are seemingly in a trance when they partake in the communion (Lord’s Supper). This ceremonial event (breaking the bread) somehow gets the full attention of the believers since it was taught to be the essential part of the church-worshipping. In reality, the message is not about the breaking and eating the bread; instead, it’s a symbolic act of obedience, while remembering the Jesus Christ as the Lord and savior. For that reason, the bible has come up with a warning, that no one shall eat the Lord’s Supper in an unworthy manner, but to examine beforehand. But to the deeper sense, this event could be in our hearts, not necessarily physical, since the forgiveness of sins and remembering the Lord happens in our minds.

The word of God says in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, NIV-Bible; “The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes back.” In fact, it’s a reminder for those who are going to church and eating the Lord’s Supper without the real faith in God since it surely brings judgment. The bible is not talking about the act of eating the mere bread and drinking the wine; instead, it speaks about abiding in God’s love through the living words of His son Jesus. Also, it’s warning about blaspheming the Lord, by eating and drinking the ceremonial bread and wine in an unworthy manner – because it’s a misdemeanor to proclaim the fake acceptance, without having renewed in true faith.

It is noticeable in the bible when the Apostle Paul speaks about the Lord’s Supper at the Church in Corinth – as he was questioning the credibility and reverence of the believers. It is written in 1 Corinthians 11:20-22, NIV-Bible; “So then, when you come together, it is not the Lord’s Supper you eat, for when you are eating, some of you go ahead with your own private suppers. As a result, one person remains hungry and another gets drunk. Don’t you have homes to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God by humiliating those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you? Certainly not in this matter” – Paul is addressing the division among the believers, as well as the lack of their humility, integrity and contentment while celebrating the Lord’s Supper. Apart from all, this is a humble announcement to remember the Lord, and to know what he has done for us 2000 years ago.

Apparently, the true Lord’s Supper happens within and inside of us every time we remember the Lord. Looking back to the history, the Lord Jesus Christ, perhaps broke the bread since that was the perfect time to see everyone gathered around the dinner table, as He could talk to all of his disciples – I suppose. Now, after 2000 years, here it becomes our duty as faithful Christians to remember the Lord every moment in our life. Amen

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