What is taking communion unworthily?

Definition and Origin of Communion

Communion, also known as the Lord’s Supper, is a practice instituted by Christ and recounted by Paul in 1 Corinthians 11:23–26. It is a symbolic meal of bread and the cup, reminding believers of the sacrificial death of Jesus and the New Covenant established through His blood. Historically, early Christians gathered regularly for this observance, reflecting the intimate fellowship and unity they shared in Messiah.

Scriptural Basis for Examination

In 1 Corinthians 11:27–29, believers are directed to examine themselves before partaking:

“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. Each one must examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing the body eats and drinks judgment on himself.”

These verses demonstrate that the seriousness of Communion is grounded in reverence for Christ’s sacrifice. Getting to the heart of what it means to take the bread and cup “unworthily” involves understanding the attitude, behavior, and spiritual condition of those participating.

Meaning of “Unworthily”

The phrase “unworthy manner” does not refer to a believer’s inherent personal worth, since no one can earn worthiness before God (Romans 3:23). Instead, it refers to the manner in which the sacred elements are received. The concern is approaching Communion with irreverence, unrepentant sin, or divisions among believers.

Paul wrote to the Corinthian church because they were treating the Lord’s Supper like a common banquet, ignoring the needs of others, and creating division (1 Corinthians 11:18–22). Their approach demonstrated disrespect to Christ’s costly atonement and to fellow believers. To take Communion unworthily, therefore, is to participate with a careless heart or to trample on the communal love and unity that Jesus established through His sacrifice.

Historical and Cultural Context

In the first-century Corinthian context, wealthier believers would often arrive first to the communal meal and consume the best food and drink, leaving less for others (1 Corinthians 11:21). This created an environment of exclusion rather than unity. Paul, contending for correct practice, insisted that each participant discern the body—both the literal sacrifice of Jesus and the congregation of believers who together form the body of Christ.

This teaching is consistent across early church writings. Passages preserved in reliable early manuscripts, such as papyrus P46 (dating to approximately the late second century), confirm that this portion of 1 Corinthians remained central to Christian orthopraxy from the earliest times.

Examination of the Heart

Paul’s admonition to “examine himself” (1 Corinthians 11:28) highlights personal reflection and repentance. Prior to receiving Communion, believers are encouraged to:

• Acknowledge and confess sin (1 John 1:9).

• Repair broken relationships and remove bitterness (Matthew 5:23–24).

• Reflect on the gravity of Christ’s sacrifice and the unity of the church body (Ephesians 4:4–6).

By doing so, one avoids partaking with a hardened heart and instead receives these symbols with the reverence they demand.

Common Misconceptions

1. Some interpret “unworthily” to mean only extremely grave sins disqualify someone from Communion. However, any known sin left unconfessed can become a barrier.

2. Others believe that God demands perfection before sharing the bread and cup. Yet Scripture continuously emphasizes God’s grace. The point of self-examination is about humility and sincerity, not moral perfection.

3. It is also misunderstood that children or new believers might accidentally partake “unworthily.” While age or experience can factor into one’s understanding, the primary focus remains the heart attitude and recognition of Christ’s atoning sacrifice.

Consequences and Warnings

Paul soberly warns that those who disregard the sanctity of Communion may bring judgment upon themselves (1 Corinthians 11:29–30). The Corinthian church saw instances of sickness and even cases of death that Paul connected to irreverent participation. While not every sickness is the result of Communion misconduct, the historical context in Corinth illustrates how God addresses grievous disregard for sacred matters.

Practical Guidelines for Worthy Participation

1. Preparation: Spend time in prayer, repentance, and reflection before taking the bread and cup.

2. Reconciliation: Seek peace with friends, family, and fellow believers if any conflict arises.

3. Awareness of the Body: Remember this is not an individualistic act; it is a communal expression of unity under the Lordship of Christ.

4. Focus on the Cross: Meditate on Christ’s death, resurrection, and the hope of His return (1 Corinthians 11:26).

Congregations across denominations often set aside moments of quiet reflection before serving Communion, which aligns with this principle of self-examination.

Archaeological and Historical Corroboration

Several early Christian writings, such as the Didache (possibly first century), describe practices around the Lord’s Supper—further affirming the significance and consistent observance of Communion in the early Christian communities. Early house churches discovered at archaeological sites around the Mediterranean reveal communal meeting spaces designed for shared worship and fellowship meals, highlighting the value placed on gathering around the Lord’s Table.

Conclusion

Taking Communion unworthily involves neglecting the sacred principles of reverence, unity, and repentance. Scripture underscores the importance of self-examination, a humble heart, and a proper recognition of the Lord’s death. This remembrance, embraced in the context of fellowship, exalts Christ’s sacrifice and unifies believers. By approaching Communion with sobriety, faith, and thankfulness, one rightly honors the body and blood of the Lord.