2. Communion

3. Names 1 Corinthians 10:21 You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons. Luke 22:17 And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks (εὐχαριστέω) he said, “Take this, and divide it among yourselves.” 1 Corinthians 11:20 When you come together, it is not the Lord’s supper that you eat.

4. Practical Why is this term important? Practical application. Jesus shared so much fellowship it was embarrassing. The disciples at Corinth are fighting over everything and engaging in idolatry. Paul’s solution: Talk about communion. 1 Corinthians 10:15 I speak as to sensible people; judge for yourselves what I say.

5. Participation 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 Christ participates in this meal (Luke 22:15-18). The cup is an act of participation in the blood of Christ. The bread is an act of participation in the body of Christ. That we share it reminds us that we are one in Christ.

6. Worship 1 Corinthians 10:18 Israel was a kingdom of worship. Worship creates identity. Worship tells a story. The church likewise is a kingdom of worship.

7. Choice 1 Corinthians 10:19-22 In worship, we choose a god. In communion, we choose a table and a people. When you take the communion, you choose the Lord. When you pass the communion, you choose a family.

8. Hear, Open, Eat Revelation 3:19-20 Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me. Christ is intolerant of sin but also eager for fellowship. Open the door to Christ, and he will break bread with you in his kingdom.