Why We Observe Communion Every Sunday
At Harvest Liberty Lake Church, we hold the act of communion in the highest regard. This sacred practice, rooted in the teachings of 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, plays a central role in our worship and spiritual growth. We observe communion every week, and here are three compelling reasons why:
1) Communion is a Mark of a True Church:
In 1 Corinthians 11:23, the Apostle Paul provides us with an account of Jesus' institution of the Lord's Supper, also known as communion. By participating in communion regularly, we adhere to a vital characteristic of a true church. It signifies our commitment to follow in the footsteps of the early Christian community. The act of breaking bread and sharing the cup, as initiated by Jesus, symbolizes our unity as believers and our connection to the larger body of Christ worldwide. Communion is not merely a ritual; it's a testament to our identity as a genuine church that follows Christ's example.
2) Communion is a Needed Reminder of the Gospel for God's People:
Each time we partake in communion, we are reminded of Christ's ultimate sacrifice on the cross. In 1 Corinthians 11:24-25, we read of Jesus taking the bread, giving thanks, and saying, "This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me." Likewise, with the cup, He says, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me." Communion serves as a vital means of regularly refreshing our memory of the Gospel and the incredible love and grace extended to us through Christ's sacrifice. It keeps us focused on the core of our faith, which is the redemptive work of Jesus.
3) Communion Helps Us Consistently Proclaim the Gospel Until Jesus Comes Again:
The concluding verse of this passage, 1 Corinthians 11:26, reminds us that each time we partake in the Lord's Supper, we proclaim the Lord's death until He returns. Communion is not just a looking back; it's also a forward-looking act. It keeps us in a state of anticipation, eagerly awaiting the glorious return of our Savior. By participating in this act regularly, we continually declare our unwavering faith in the Gospel and our hope for the future. It reinforces our commitment to live our lives as faithful disciples and ambassadors of Christ until He comes again.
In conclusion, observing communion every week at Harvest Liberty Lake Church is not just a tradition; it's a profound, meaningful, and biblically supported practice. It marks us as a true church, reminds us of the Gospel's central message, and helps us maintain a steadfast proclamation of Christ's sacrifice until His glorious return. Communion is a source of spiritual nourishment and a symbol of our unity as believers in Christ. We invite you to join us in this beautiful act of worship, and through it, deepen your connection with God and fellow believers as we journey together in faith.
