Transformed by Truth: Communion on the Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
Introduction:
Today, on the seventh Sunday after Pentecost, we gather to partake in Communion.
The number 7 in the Bible is deeply intertwined with themes of divine perfection, completeness, and the fulfillment of God’s promises. Whether reflecting on the creation week, God’s covenants, the call to forgiveness, or apocalyptic visions, the symbolic significance of seven encourages believers to trust in the totality and perfection of God’s plans and purposes. Let us embrace the spiritual truths symbolized by this sacred number, finding rest, assurance, and hope in the completeness of God's work in our lives.
This sacred act of Communion is not just a ritual, but a profound encounter with Christ's presence and a reminder of His sacrifice. Let’s explore the significance of Communion, its transformative power, and how it deepens our relationship with Christ and each other.
1. Communion as Remembrance (1 Corinthians 11:23-26)
1 Corinthians 11:23-26 (NLT) - "For I pass on to you what I received from the Lord himself. On the night when he was betrayed, the Lord Jesus took some bread and gave thanks to God for it. Then he broke it in pieces and said, 'This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.' In the same way, he took the cup of wine after supper, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant between God and his people—an agreement confirmed with my blood. Do this in remembrance of me as often as you drink it.' For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you are announcing the Lord’s death until he comes again."
Paul recounts Jesus' institution of the Lord's Supper, emphasizing its purpose as a memorial of His sacrifice. The Greek word for remembrance, "anamnesis," implies more than recalling; it means to make present again.
Communion is a powerful act of remembering Christ's atoning sacrifice. As we break the bread and drink the cup, we are reminded of His broken body and shed blood. This remembrance is not a mere recollection but a spiritual re-enactment of Christ's redemptive act. It calls us to live in the reality of His sacrifice, shaping our lives by His love and grace.
Luke 22:19 (NLT) - "He took some bread and gave thanks to God for it. Then he broke it in pieces and gave it to the disciples, saying, 'This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.'"
Luke provides a detailed account of the Last Supper, where Jesus institutes the practice of Communion, commanding His disciples to partake in it as a remembrance of Him.
This command from Jesus is a personal invitation to His followers to continually remember and proclaim His sacrifice. It is a call to centre our faith and lives on the transformative power of His death and resurrection.
N.T. Wright says, "When Jesus wanted to explain to his disciples what his forthcoming death was all about, he didn’t give them a theory. He gave them a meal."
Think of a photo album. When we look at old pictures, we don't just remember events; we relive emotions and experiences. Similarly, Communion helps us relive the profound truth of Christ’s sacrifice, stirring our hearts with gratitude and devotion.
2. Communion as Fellowship (1 Corinthians 10:16-17)
1 Corinthians 10:16-17 (NLT) - "When we bless the cup at the Lord’s Table, aren’t we sharing in the blood of Christ? And when we break the bread, aren’t we sharing in the body of Christ? And though we are many, we all eat from one loaf of bread, showing that we are one body."
Paul describes Communion as a participation in the body and blood of Christ. The Greek word for sharing, "koinonia," means fellowship or communion, indicating a deep, spiritual union.
Communion is an act of fellowship with Christ and with one another. It unites us as one body, transcending individual differences and fostering a sense of community. As we partake, we affirm our shared faith and mutual dependence on Christ's sacrifice. This unity calls us to love and serve each other, reflecting the selfless love of Jesus.
Acts 2:42 (NLT) - "All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer."
The early church is depicted as a community deeply committed to fellowship, breaking bread together, and prayer. The Lord's Supper was integral to their gatherings, symbolizing their unity in Christ.
The early Christians understood the importance of fellowship and shared life. By participating in Communion, we continue this tradition, emphasizing our bond in Christ and our commitment to one another.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote, "The table fellowship of Christians implies acceptance into the community, the Church, and hence a sharing of their common life."
Imagine a family dinner where everyone comes together, shares food, and enjoys each other’s company. Communion is our spiritual family meal, where we come together in unity, nourished by Christ’s love and grace.
3. Communion as Anticipation (1 Corinthians 11:26)
1 Corinthians 11:26 (NLT) - "For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you are announcing the Lord’s death until he comes again."
Paul reminds believers that Communion is also a proclamation of Christ’s return. It looks forward to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.
Communion is an act of hope, looking forward to the return of Christ. It reminds us that our faith is not just about the past and present but also the future. Each time we partake, we declare our anticipation of His coming kingdom. This hope shapes our lives, encouraging us to live faithfully and expectantly.
Revelation 19:9 (NLT) - "And the angel said to me, 'Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb.' And he added, 'These are true words that come from God.'"
John’s vision of the wedding feast of the Lamb portrays the ultimate celebration of Christ's union with His Church. It is a future event that Communion foreshadows.
The wedding feast is a powerful image of our future hope. Every Communion is a foretaste of this glorious celebration, strengthening our hope and reminding us of the joyous future that awaits us in Christ.
Tim Keller states, "The best way to get ready for the coming of Christ is never to forget the presence of Christ."
Think of a bride preparing for her wedding day, filled with anticipation and joy. Similarly, as the Bride of Christ, we prepare for His return with hope and excitement, knowing that a glorious future awaits us.
Conclusion:
Friends, as we celebrate Communion today, let us remember Christ’s sacrifice, embrace our fellowship with Him and each other, and anticipate His return. Let this sacred act transform our hearts and lives, drawing us closer to Christ and one another.
Call to Action:
Today, as you partake in Communion, reflect on these truths. Remember the sacrifice, cherish the fellowship, and live in the hope of His return. Allow the Holy Spirit to deepen your faith and strengthen your commitment to live out these truths daily. Amen.
