I Corinthians 11:27-29 (NIV), “So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup. For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves.”
The Apostle Paul was appalled by the irreverent attitude of the Christians at Corinth when they observed the Lord's memorial. Paul reiterates what the celebration should be a reminder of:
1. Those who partake recognize that the Lord’s death alone provides for forgiveness and the removal of sin. Anyone who participates in the memorial without faith in this “once for all” sacrifice is counting the blood of Christ as a common thing (Hebrews 10:29). He puts himself in the same class as those who mocked Him during his crucifixion.
2. Those who partake are declaring they are Christian believers, and are therefore members of Christ’s body. They are one loaf. (I Corinthians 10:17) Their behavior should display a Christ-like character. They walk in newness of life. If they allowed the old sinful nature to regain control over their bodies would be crucifying Christ afresh and putting Him to open shame. (Hebrews 6:6)
3. When we drink the cup, we are saying that, like Christ, we are willing to endure suffering and to sacrifice our wills – even unto death. Whatever the heavenly Father pours in the cup of experiences for us, we gladly drink.(Matthew 10: 38, 39)
Therefore when we come together to partake in memorial of Christ’s death, let us examine ourselves. And just as the Israelite had to search every corner to rid their homes of leaven (which represents sin), we should search our hearts to make sure that we are not harboring any of the old leaven of malice and wickedness (envy, strife, jealousy). 1 Corinthian 5: 7,8.
