The Corinthians have made a mess of many things, including Communion.
It’ s probably no surprise that even something sacred like Communion (also known as
the Eucharist or the Lord’ s Supper) could be impacted by dysfunction. There was a
flippancy and selfishness that had taken over how Communion was practiced.
Rather than taking Communion together as a collective acknowledgment of the
sacrifice of Christ, people in Corinth had turned it into an individualist act.
● some not even being able to celebrate Communion because the supplies had
run out
● the act losing some of its meaningfulness as pointing to the corporate body of
Christ, the church
Paul reminded the Corinthians that Jesus introduced this meal with his disciples and
drew attention to the gravity of it as a symbol of his body and blood. This corporate
and symbolic nature should shape the practice of Communion by the church.
Each person should examine themselves and acknowledge those around them when
they take Communion. When the church rightly practices this act, they are together
announcing the message of the cross in anticipation of his return.
Questions for Reflection/Discussion:
-What are ways that Communion can help us consider those around us?
-What do you look forward to about Jesus returning?
