Welcome to the
CHURCH OF CHRIST
ASHAIMAN
LORD'S SUPPER
WHAT IS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE LORD'S SUPPER?
1 Cor. 11:23-26
Purpose: To examine the reasons why we partake.
I. Introduction:
A. The Lord’s Supper (1 Cor. 11:20) is known as several things. Communion
(1 Cor.10:16), breaking of bread (Acts 2:42), table of the Lord (1 Cor. 10:21).
B. Sometimes it is misnamed/misused. “Eucharist,” “sacrament,” “church ordinance.” Not
found in the Bible. Some abuses in 1 Cor. 11. Factions, wrong motive, abuse, neglect of
others, drunkenness. Some today use in wrong ways, at wrong times.
II. The Lord’s Supper instituted:
A. Four accounts of the institution of the Lord’s Supper.
B. Matt. 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:17-20 and 1 Cor. 11:23-26.
C. Was established at the Passover time, but not tied to it today.
III. Questions about the Lord’s Supper:
A. What is the Lord’s Supper?
1. It is a memorial. Luke 22:19.
2. It is a proclamation. 1 Cor. 11:26.
B. What do the elements represent?
1. Bread. Represents body of Christ. 1 Cor. 11:24.
a. Unleavened. Instituted during Passover period when no leaven would have been
allowed.
b. Leavening is seen as corruption. Unleavened would be pure.
2. Cup. Represents blood of Christ. 1 Cor. 11:25.
a. Fruit of the vine or the cup.
b. Not the literal blood. Figurative. John 6:53.
C. Who should partake? How should one partake?
1. Christians. Matt. 26:26-29; Acts 20:7.
2. “Open” or “closed” communion? Each one to decide for themselves.
3. Examine selves. Be worthy as you partake. 1 Cor. 11:27-28.
D. When should one partake?
1. First day of the week. Acts 20:7. Which one? All of them.
2. Some say taking it once a week is too frequent–will take away from the meaning of the
memorial. Is it too frequent to pray, sing, give once a week? Does it take away from
the meaning of saying “I love you” if you say it at least once a week to your spouse?