Monday, January 7, 2013

It doesn't have to be awkward...

Let's not make this weird. We can just be friends, talk, go to church, and serve God together. Or agree to disagree too. Sometimes it seems it is not always possible to find agreement on simple things, like let's say Communion (Eucharist). My wife and I truly enjoy it, but have narrowly found a place that gives it the respect we have always felt it is due. After all, the apostle Paul did write a bit about judgement if it is done in an unworthy manner and all. We do sit and check our hearts as they stand before God before feeling ready to receive it, and occasionally decide not to take it.




Go to one church, and it is open to all. Go to another, only for members. Still another, for believers in Jesus. This other one, it's for everyone. That one, only if a profession is made. It may be worth fighting over, as it is a serious thing, at least according to my belief. I probably couldn't be convinced that it's not also a serious thing in the bible. Which I also hold to being the infallible  inspired word of God, usually seeking to be understood by fallible, hopefully inspired people like us. Several places have nice cards available for reading about what communion is, and whether one should partake or not. 




A while back, I attempted to form some kind of belief about communion according to religion, and I believe it does hold some weight, and it also tracks fairly well. In evangelical churches, typically the words of Paul are used to institute communion, and often it is seen as a remembrance of Christ giving his body and blood. More traditional and Liturgical denominations seem to prefer the words of Jesus himself for the institution, and it is a sharing in his presence in whatever form along with the remembrance that is actualized in taking the elements. 



Whether the memory of or the thanksgiving for, or the presence with, or to share fellowship with God and man, communion will always be an important part of our faith, as a real, tangible way we connect with the sacrifice Christ made on our behalf. That I believe is the point, and that is where those who are unsure may just want to further investigate before they partake, lest they forsake- Almighty God.

1 comment:

  1. I think you are correct that the only instructions we have regarding the partaking of communion comes from Jesus’ own words to "do this in remembrance of me" until He comes (1 Corinthians 11:24-26). In regards to communion being open or closed it's a matter of the heart . Even though it's for believers we should examine our motive for partaking as Paul exhorts us to do. Also the location such as at home or a home Bible study is also applicable.

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