The Communion of Saints
In C.S. Lewis' The Great Divorce, the protagonist encounters a curious phenomenon: grass is more real than humans. This might seem absurd, but Lewis is pointing to a profound truth: the spiritual realm is often more substantial than our physical existence. Similarly, the Lord's Supper, or Communion, is a tangible experience of the spiritual realm, a truly real encounter with the divine.
A Real Spiritual Presence
The Belgic Confession, a Reformed theological document, beautifully articulates this concept: "Now those who are born again have two lives in them." The first is physical and temporal, common to all. The second is spiritual and heavenly, given through faith in Christ. This spiritual life is nourished and maintained through the Lord's Supper.
Thus, to support the physical and earthly life God has prescribed for us an appropriate earthly and material bread, which is as common to all as life itself also is. But to maintain the spiritual and heavenly life that belongs to believers he has sent a living bread that came down from heaven: namely Jesus Christ, who nourishes and maintains the spiritual life of believers when eaten-- that is, when appropriated and received spiritually by faith. - Belgic Confession, Article 35
In the Reformed tradition, we believed that while the bread and wine remained unchanged, Christ, through the Spirit, grants believers true fellowship with Himself in heaven. This fellowship is glorious and very real, though indescribable.
Unity in the Church
The Lord's Supper is not merely a symbolic act; it is a powerful expression of unity within the Church. Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, rebukes the believers for their divisions and improper behavior during Communion. He emphasizes that the Church is a body, and as such, its members must act in harmony.
The Corinthian church was divided along social lines, with the wealthy enjoying a lavish meal while the poor went hungry. This behavior was a stark contrast to the teachings of Jesus, who emphasized humility and service. Paul's rebuke serves as a reminder that true communion involves sharing, not hoarding, and caring for one another, not isolating ourselves.
Proclaiming the Lord's Death
The Lord's Supper is a proclamation of the Lord's death. By partaking of the bread and wine, we remember Jesus' sacrifice on the cross and the new covenant He established. It is an act of remembrance and a declaration of our faith in His resurrection.
Connection Through the Holy Spirit
The Lord's Supper is not merely a historical event; it is a present-day experience. Through the Holy Spirit, we are united to Christ's body and share in His life. The Spirit, who dwells within us, enables us to understand the spiritual significance of the Supper and to experience its transformative power.
The Lord's Supper as a Meal
While the spiritual aspects of the Lord's Supper are undoubtedly significant, it's also important to remember that it is a meal. In the first century, meals were social events that brought people together. The Lord's Supper, therefore, is an opportunity for believers to gather as a community, to share a meal, and to strengthen their bonds of fellowship.
The Dangers of Indiscretion
Paul warns the Corinthians about the dangers of partaking of the Lord's Supper "unworthily." This doesn't necessarily mean being unworthy of salvation, but rather, approaching the Supper with a lack of reverence or understanding. Paul suggests that those who are conscious of their sin should examine themselves before partaking, seeking forgiveness and reconciliation with God and others.
The Lord's Supper Looks Forward
The Lord's Supper is an appetizer, setting the stage for an amazing future event. As we partake of the bread and wine, we look forward to the day when we will feast with Christ at the heavenly banquet. When Jesus returns, we’ll enjoy the full wedding feast of the Lamb. The Lord’s Supper gets us ready for that!
The Lord's Supper as a Source of Strength
In the midst of life's challenges, the Lord's Supper can be a source of strength and encouragement. As we partake of the bread and wine, we are reminded of God's love and faithfulness. We are strengthened to face whatever trials may come our way. The same way food strengthens our body, somehow the Lord’s Supper strengthens our souls, fueling us as we live for Jesus.
Conclusion
This Sunday we’ll celebrate the Lord’s Supper. Jesus Himself will be present in our worship, filling our hearts with strength. Let’s prepare our hearts!
With You;
Pastor Tim
