Thursday 17 April 2025
"For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes." (v. 26)
Background
Today’s Bible reading offers an explanation and practical guidelines for observing the sacred ritual of Holy Communion, a rite using bread and wine in which Christians remember Jesus' Last Supper before he was crucified.
Paul, the author of this letter to the Corinthians, was a revered figure in the Church. He was told what had happened at the Last Supper and faithfully passed it on to others. (1 Corinthians 11:23)
Paul's purpose in writing to the Corinthians was to plead for unity among a young congregation plagued by divisions that even affected their shared worship. He was addressing a group of Gentile Christians (ie who were not of Jewish descent) residing in Corinth. These believers faced criticism for various issues, including pride, sexual immorality, misuse of spiritual gifts, and misunderstandings of Christian beliefs, such as the Lord’s Supper.
In verse 24, Paul emphasises the significance of this ritual, stating that Jesus had said: “Do this in remembrance of me.” This simple meal with friends was a profound way of expressing gratitude for the shared experiences and memories they had created together.
While we should not always dwell on the past, it is important to pause and reflect on the events of Holy Week. Holy Communion serves as such a moment of remembrance. By observing the Lord’s Supper, we are not merely consuming a meal; we are connecting with the past, remembering the sacrifices made by Jesus Christ, and reaffirming our commitment to faith and unity.
Our reflections at Holy Communion are not merely memories of long-past events. They are a living remembrance (1 Corinthians 11:24-25). At Holy Communion, we recall that death could not hold Jesus captive, and that on the third day he rose again. We recall his ascension into heaven and his constant intercession at the right hand of God the Almighty. We relish the present restoration of the Holy Spirit and eagerly anticipate the glorious return of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 11:26).
To Ponder:
- How does this passage challenge us to think about the Lord's Supper?
- How can we participate in the Lord's Supper in a way that is worthy and meaningful?
- How can we use the Lord's Supper to strengthen our faith and our relationship with God?
Prayer
A prayer used at the Holy Communion service:
Come to this sacred table, not because you must, but because you may. Come, not to declare that you are righteous, but that you desire to be a true disciple of our Lord Jesus Christ. Come, not because you are strong, but because you are weak; not because you have any claim on heaven’s rewards, but because in your frailty and sin you stand in constant need of heaven’s mercy and help. (Methodist Worship Book, p. 158)
Bible notes author: The Revd Louisa Haynes
Louisa Haynes is the Circuit Superintendent for Hull Centre and West Methodist Circuit. Writing the reflections this week was a collective effort and she thanks the Superintendents from the Yorkshire North and East District.