Communion this Sunday
Dear friends,
We will observe the Lord’s Supper this Sunday as I will be away July 12 visiting Laurie in Indiana. Please read Matthew 9:9-13.
Jesus is our example Peter tells us, but in what way? Clearly we are not as noble, good or intelligent as Jesus neither are we to “try to get there.” But His principles are certainly to be followed, one of which is religious devotion is useless at best and toxic at worse if it does not lead to righteous living. So the explanation of ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ Read Hosea 6, especially 1-6. Religion is no substitute for doing what is right; rather we have to walk the talk. Any theological system that eliminates the need for righteous living (read mercy here) is wrong.
Table fellowship assumes a certain oneness with whom we eat. Jesus was condemned by the Pharisees for eating with sinners. Here we must be careful, because we are commanded not even to eat (fellowship at church) with false Christians ( 1 Cor. 5:9-13) because we would be seen as approving of their sinful lifestyle and untrue belief. So a Christian who is in open rebellion against the Lord would not be welcome in fellowship as if everything is wonderful. The 2 John 7-11 warning is against inviting so called Christians to teach in church who hold heretical doctrine. We would never ask a Mormon or Jehovah Witness to speak at church. Yet unbelievers are in a different category all together.
What is the point of Jesus eating with sinners and tax collectors? Do we have a self righteous attitude toward those who are not Christians? What does this passage say to us about taking Communion this Sunday? Remember, the Lord’s Supper is for repentant sinners who want to follow the Lord in faith because of His mercy. As you see this Sunday approaching take advantage of the time to do a personal inventory and confess your sins to the Lord, examine yourself (1 Cor. 11: 27-32) and so eat of the Bread and drink of the Cup. None of us is righteous compared to the Lord; we are corrupt, and even the heavens are not pure in His sight. This Sunday we will be reminded where our true righteousness comes from.
See you Sunday,
Lee
