Outline: The Essentials of Communion

TEXT: 1 Corinthians 11:24-34

Introduction:

The Corinthian church was abusing the communion tables using it as a means to satisfy their flesh.  Paul details the meaning and the necessity of communion and sets in order the purpose of the ordinance.

I. We are to Remember (v24-27)

A. The Body of Christ- “Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me”

B. The Blood of Christ- “This is the cup of the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me”

II. We are to Review (v28-30)

A. The Judging Believer– “But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup”

B. The Joyless Believer- “For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep”

III. We are to Repent (v31-32)

A. Our Chastisement– “But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord.

B. Our Correction- “that we should not be condemned with the world”

IV. We are to Regroup (v33-34)

A. Communion Should Bring Harmony– “Wherefore, my brethren, when ye are come together to eat”

B. Communion Should Bring Humility– “tarry one for another”

Conclusion:

The truth of the table is for us to be transformed.  Communion is a serious, sobering, and sincere time of reflection and remembrance.