Remembering Jesus - The Lord's Supper
THEN AND NOW
Remembering Jesus - The Lord's Supper
THEN AND NOW
Ever since the death of Jesus, serious Bible students and scholars who have studied the Lord’s Supper have established beyond doubt that it was the central act of the assembly of the early church (1 Cor. 11:20ff; Acts 20:28).
Consider a few terms revealing the different aspects and nature of the Lord’s Supper; each with a special reference to Christ:
First, we sometimes hear the word eucharist, a Greek word connected with thanksgiving. This specific word is not used in the text; but what is used in all four Gospels is the related verb, meaning to give thanks. Partaking of the Lord’s Supper is giving thanks for the salvation that brought the church into existence. Christians partake of the Lord’s Supper giving Jesus thanks for the death He suffered, paying the debt we could never pay.
Second, it is called the Lord’s Supper (1 Cor. 11:20). Why? Because it is His supper. The eating and the drinking are done in His honor. This is, of course, connected to the last supper where Jesus shared the Passover with His apostles.
Third, in connection with the Lord’s Supper we sometimes hear the word communion, from the Greek word meaning fellowship. When partaking of the Lord’s Supper, a child of God actually fellowships with Jesus Christ as well as other Christians. When the Lord said to His disciples, “I am with you always” (Matt. 28:20), He promised to be with us always. The Lord promised to be with us always. The Supper which Christians partake of each week is a pledge from the Lord that His presence is continually near. So through partaking of the Lord’s Supper, a Christian fellowships with Jesus and other Christians.
Fourth, we often hear the word memorial in connection with the Lord’s Supper, and the Bible expression “Do this in remembrance of Me” is on Lord’s Supper tables in many congregations throughout the land. When celebrating Passover, the ancient Israelites became participants in the Passover. When celebrating the Lord’s Supper, Christians become a participant in that original event and again fellowship with Jesus Christ. It is more than just recalling a past event; it is connecting with Jesus. This memorial proclaims His death until He comes, meaning that Christians look forward to a future with Jesus.
Finally, this is a covenant meal. As Jesus was partaking He spoke of the new covenant poured out by His blood. The Lord's Supper is based on His sacrifice. The result of what He did for us is the forgiveness of our sins. Truly, the Lord’s Supper is the most meaningful worship event in the life of a Christian.
When partaking of the Lord’s Supper, we might decide to turn down the lights; drink from gold cups; dress in white robes; and sing softly, but frankly none of this makes the Lord’s Supper special. What makes it special is the fact that Jesus Christ died for our sins and God raised Him from the dead.
