An Ordinance and a Real Means of Grace
Main Texts: Matthew 26:17-30; Mark 14:22-26; Luke 22:19-20; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
Introduction: A Divine Appointment
The Lord’s Supper is more than a religious tradition or a symbolic intermission in our worship service; it is a divine ordinance instituted by Christ Himself and a means of grace for the Church. While some view it as a mere empty ritual, the Scriptures teach that it possesses real spiritual value for the believer. It is a moment where heaven meets earth at the Table.
The central question we must ask today is: What is the Lord’s Supper truly, and how must we live it out correctly?
I. The Deep Significance: A Perpetual Seal
"This is my body given for you... This cup is the new covenant in my blood." (Luke 22:19-20)
The Supper serves as a perpetual memorial of Christ’s sacrifice, but it is also the seal of the New Covenant. It acts as a divine confirmation that the body was indeed given and the blood was indeed poured out for us. It creates a bridge across time:
• The Past: We look to the finished sacrifice on the Cross.
• The Present: We experience grace applied to our hearts today.
• The Future: We hold onto the eternal promise of His return.
Central Truth: The Supper does not just remind us of salvation; it confirms and strengthens our assurance in Christ. Application: Participate with a deep, conscious awareness of Jesus' redemptive work.
II. A Means of Grace: Real Spiritual Value
"For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink." (John 6:55)
Jesus presents Himself as the Bread of Life. In the Supper, we find spiritual nutrition that the world cannot provide.
• Soul Food: It nourishes the inner man and renews our intimacy with God.
• Faith Strengthened: It is not the physical digestion of bread that changes us, but the spiritual nutrition received through faith.
• Beyond the Elements: The bread and wine are physical signs that point us to a spiritual reality. We must look through the elements to contemplate the Christ they represent.
Central Truth: The Supper is God’s instrument to sustain and fuel the believer's spiritual life. Application: Do not approach the Table out of habit. Approach it seeking spiritual renewal and strength.
III. The Seal of Unity: Vertical and Horizontal
"Is not the cup of thanksgiving... a participation in the blood of Christ? ... Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body." (1 Corinthians 10:16-17)
Communion is a two-dimensional experience. It is Vertical (our union with Christ) and Horizontal (our union with our brothers and sisters).
• The One Body: Sharing the one loaf expresses our fraternal love and our status as a single family of grace.
• The Warning: If we are at odds with our neighbor, our communion with God is hindered.
Central Truth: There is no true Communion with God without true fellowship within the Church. Application: Reconcile with your brothers and sisters and live in intentional unity.
IV. The Order of Celebration: A Permanent Practice
The early church lived out this ordinance with a specific rhythm (Acts 20:7; 1 Cor 11:26). It was never meant to be a one-time event, but a constant heartbeat of the community.
• Continuous: We do this "until He comes."
• Collective: It is an act for the gathered church, not a private meal.
• Ordered: It must be done according to the Word, with spiritual preparation and reverence (Hebrews 9:28).
Central Truth: The Supper is a permanent, visible proclamation of the Gospel to the world and to ourselves. Application: Value the gathering of the saints and participate faithfully in this holy order.
V. Spiritual Benefits: The Harvest of the Table
When we participate worthily, we reap profound spiritual benefits:
1. Fortified Faith: Our doubts are silenced by the physical reminder of His promise.
2. Covenant Renewal: We recommit ourselves to our Lord.
3. Soul Satisfaction: We are reminded that Christ is enough for all our needs.
4. Confirmed Hope: It anchors us in the reality of eternal life.
Central Truth: The Lord's Supper is a primary channel through which God pours His spiritual blessings into His people.
- Celebrating the Memorial of the Redemptive Work
- Beyond Ritual: A Real Spiritual Experience
- The Table of the Lord: Deep experience of koinonia
- +10 Sermons for Communion Service: The Lord’s Supper.
Conclusion
It is a sacred meeting place. It is an ordinance that demands our reverence, a means of grace that invites our faith, and a celebration that ignites our hope.
As you leave this Table, remember: you are nourished by the Bread of Life and sealed by the Blood of the Covenant. Go forth to live as a people who have been fed by the King Himself. Amen.
