What are the consequences of not discerning the body according to this verse? Setting the Stage: Paul’s Instructions on the Lord’s Supper “Whoever eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself.” (1 Corinthians 11:29) What Does It Mean to “Discern the Body”? • Recognize the bread and cup as symbols of Christ’s literal, once-for-all sacrifice (1 Corinthians 11:24–25). • Acknowledge the unity and holiness of Christ’s church—the “one body” (1 Corinthians 10:16–17; 12:12). • Examine personal motives and relationships before partaking (1 Corinthians 11:28). Direct Consequences Described in 1 Corinthians 11:29-30 • Judgment from God in real time – “For this reason many among you are weak.” – “and sick.” – “and a number of you have fallen asleep.” (physical death) • Loss of physical vitality: weakness. • Physical illness: sickness. • Premature death: falling asleep, a common biblical euphemism for believers’ death (John 11:11; 1 Thes 4:13). Why Such Serious Discipline? • Protects the purity of Christ’s ordinance (1 Corinthians 11:26). • Warns the church that God’s holiness remains uncompromised (Hebrews 12:28-29). • Acts as corrective love: “But when we are judged by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be condemned with the world.” (1 Corinthians 11:32) Supporting Scriptures that Echo the Warning • Acts 5:1-11—Ananias and Sapphira experience immediate judgment for hypocrisy. • Hebrews 10:26-31—“It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” • 1 Peter 4:17—“It is time for judgment to begin with the household of God.” • 1 John 5:16-17—Sin leading to death. Practical Takeaways for Believers Today • Approach the Lord’s Table with respectful self-examination and confession. • Mend broken relationships in the body before participating (Matthew 5:23-24). • Remember the costliness of grace—Christ’s body given, His blood poured out (1 Corinthians 11:24-25). • Value unity; avoid partiality and divisions that undermine discernment of the body (1 Corinthians 11:18-22). • Trust God’s discipline as loving correction, leading to deeper holiness and fellowship (Hebrews 12:5-11). |
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