How can we personally prepare to partake in the Lord's Supper meaningfully? Remembering the Setting “Now then, when you come together, it is not the Lord’s Supper you eat.” (1 Corinthians 11:20) Paul’s rebuke shows that careless hearts can empty the Supper of its meaning. To prepare well, we reverse the Corinthians’ errors by coming with reverence, unity, and deliberate focus. Gathering with Purpose • Honor Christ, not ourselves (1 Corinthians 11:23–24). • Recognize the meal as a proclamation of His death, not a social event (1 Corinthians 11:26). • Approach the table as family, valuing every believer equally (1 Corinthians 10:17). Examining Our Hearts • “Let a man examine himself, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup.” (1 Corinthians 11:28) • Look for hidden pride, resentment, or indifference that would dishonor the Lord. • Invite the Spirit to search motives (Psalm 139:23–24). Reconciliation with Others • Broken relationships hinder worship (Matthew 5:23–24). • Seek forgiveness, release grudges, make things right before approaching the table. • Unity displays the Gospel we celebrate (John 13:34–35). Confessing Sin and Receiving Grace • “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us…” (1 John 1:9). • Confession is specific, not vague—naming attitudes, words, and actions. • Rest in Christ’s finished work; the Supper is a reminder that sin is paid for. Focusing on Christ’s Sacrifice • Meditate on His body “given for you” and His blood “poured out” (Luke 22:19–20). • Recall the cost of redemption—substitution, propitiation, reconciliation (Isaiah 53:5; Romans 5:8–9). • Respond with gratitude and praise. Anticipating His Return • “For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.” (1 Corinthians 11:26) • Let hope of His return purify conduct (1 John 3:2–3). • Look forward to the marriage supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:6–9). Engaging in Worship • Sing, read, or silently reflect on Scripture that exalts Christ (Psalm 22; Isaiah 53; Hebrews 10:19–22). • Participate actively—listen, taste, remember, and rejoice. • Offer your body as “a living sacrifice” in response (Romans 12:1). Practicing Self-Control • Avoid distractions—hasty schedules, idle conversation, electronic noise. • Fast or simplify meals beforehand if that helps focus (Acts 13:2). • Approach the table with a settled, undivided heart. Living Out the Meaning • The Supper launches obedient living, not a ritual box to check (1 Corinthians 11:27). • Serve others as Christ has served you (Philippians 2:5–8). • Keep short accounts with God and people until the next observance. |
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