We see abuses at the Lord’s Supper – 11:17-22; the meaning of the Supper – 11:23-26; and now preparing to keep the Supper – 11:27-34.
- We need to examine ourselves.
- 11:27-29. The Heidelberg Catechism Question 81: ‘Who are to come to the table of the Lord?’ And it gives the answer: ‘Those who are truly displeased with themselves because of their sins and yet trust that these are forgiven them and that their remaining weakness is covered by the suffering and death of Christ, and who also desire more and more to strengthen their faith and amend their life. But hypocrites and those who do not repent eat and drink judgment upon themselves.’
- God chastens wayward believers.
- 11:30-32; Numbers 14:36-38; Ps.94:12; Rev.3:19. Not all suffering is chastening, but all has the effect of chastening.
- We need to consider other believers.
- 11:33-34a. If you are having trouble getting your child to clean up his room, be very specific: Not ‘Clean up your room’ for that might be too abstract for some; but ‘Pick up every toy off the floor and put it away in the box.’ Be concrete, not abstract.
- communion is with God and His people – 1 John 1:3.
- Do not fight too many battles at once.
- 11:34b. It is usually better to tackle the main issues first, and then work out towards the less vital matters. This is good pastoral practice and good parenting practice and good counselling practice. ‘Overdoing can be undoing,’ as the Puritans used to say.
We eat and drink worthily when we realise we are unworthy:
I am not worthy, holy Lord,
That You should come to me;
But speak the word – one gracious word
Can set the sinner free.