How can we examine ourselves before partaking in the Lord's Supper?

The Call to Examine

“Therefore whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 11:27)

Paul’s warning is immediately followed by a remedy: “Each one must examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup.” (1 Corinthians 11:28). Self-examination is an act of obedience that prepares the heart to receive the Supper with reverence and gratitude.

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Understanding “Unworthy Manner”

• Treating the elements as common or routine rather than holy (1 Corinthians 11:29).

• Harboring unconfessed sin (Psalm 139:23-24).

• Neglecting love and unity within the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 10:16-17).

• Approaching the table without genuine faith in Christ’s atoning work (Hebrews 9:14).

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Steps for Heart Examination

• Invite God’s searchlight: “Search me, O God… see if there is any offensive way in me.” (Psalm 139:23-24).

• Confess known sin: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us…” (1 John 1:9).

• Restore broken relationships: “First go and be reconciled to your brother.” (Matthew 5:23-24).

• Test the authenticity of faith: “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith.” (2 Corinthians 13:5).

• Reaffirm dependence on Christ’s sacrifice and righteousness alone.

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Common Areas to Confess

• Pride, bitterness, or unresolved conflict.

• Habitual sins of thought, word, or deed.

• Neglect of worship, Scripture, or prayer.

• Self-reliance instead of trust in Christ.

• Lack of love expressed in tangible action (1 John 3:18).

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Remembering Christ’s Sacrifice

The bread and cup proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes (1 Corinthians 11:26). Reflect on:

• His body given—demonstrated love (Ephesians 5:2).

• His blood shed—complete cleansing (Hebrews 9:14).

• Our unity in Him—one loaf, one body (1 Corinthians 10:17).

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Receiving the Supper in Faith

With sins confessed and hearts humbled, partake confidently, honoring the Savior who made you worthy. The table then becomes a fresh celebration of grace, a renewing of covenant love, and a foretaste of the feast to come.