When should Christians abstain from taking communion?

Foundational Understanding of Communion

Communion, often referred to as the Lord’s Supper, is a sacred memorial instituted by Christ (cf. Matthew 26:26–28). According to Paul’s teaching, it is a proclamation of the Lord’s death until He returns (1 Corinthians 11:26). Throughout Church history, believers have regarded this practice with great solemnity. Indeed, early church writings (such as references in the Didache) show that Christians approached this ordinance with reverence, mindful of the unity of believers and the holiness of Christ’s sacrifice.

Biblical Basis for Self-Examination

Scripture emphasizes careful self-examination before participating in communion. Paul writes, “A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup” (1 Corinthians 11:28). This call to examine one’s heart is rooted in the recognition that communion is not a casual ritual; it symbolizes deep spiritual truths about Christ’s atoning work.

The integrity of this self-examination is underscored by 1 Corinthians 11:27: “Whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sin against the body and blood of the Lord.” This warning points to attitudes of flippancy, hypocrisy, or unrepentant sin that undermine the sacred meaning of the ordinance. Historical documents and manuscript evidence—corroborated by scholars such as Dr. James White and Dr. Dan Wallace—support the reliable transmission of these passages, showing that this important teaching has been consistently preserved.

Meaning of “Unworthy Manner”

The concept of an “unworthy manner” does not indicate that believers must be morally perfect to partake. Rather, it cautions against:

• Persisting in sin without repentance (cf. 1 John 1:9).

• Cultivating bitterness or refusing to reconcile with others (Matthew 5:23–24).

• Approaching communion with irreverence or unbelief (Hebrews 11:6).

Many archaeological and textual finds (including early Greek manuscripts) reinforce the understanding that the apostolic church treated sin within the body of believers seriously, further clarifying why careful reflection was required before taking the Lord’s Supper.

Clear Reasons to Abstain

1. Deliberate, Unrepentant Sin:

When a person knowingly continues in sinful habits without seeking forgiveness or turning away from them, temporarily abstaining from communion is wise. The biblical model calls believers to resolve these matters (1 John 1:9), then partake in communion with a clear conscience.

2. Broken Fellowship or Unresolved Conflict:

Scripture stresses the requirement to pursue reconciliation whenever possible. Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:14–15 highlights the importance of forgiveness; holding onto grudges can breed bitterness that contradicts the unity symbolized in communion. Early church tradition, such as writings from the early fathers, confirms that right relationships were seen as essential before partaking.

3. Lack of True Faith in Christ:

Communion testifies to the death, resurrection, and promised return of Christ (1 Corinthians 11:26). Those who do not believe these truths—such as those unsure of Jesus’ deity or His atoning work—should first address their faith commitment before taking communion. In the same way a geologist might require certain conditions constantly held together for a hypothesis to stand, Scripture maintains that all Christian doctrine is consistent. Only those who truly trust in Christ’s saving work partake meaningfully.

4. Self-Imposed Spiritual Discipline or Preparation:

Sometimes, believers choose to abstain briefly out of reverence and spiritual sobriety, perhaps when they sense they need time to pray, confess sins, or seek counsel. This is not an exercise in legalism but rather a step of personal reflection based on the admonition in 1 Corinthians 11:28.

Historical and Archaeological Backing for a Sacred Ordinance

Excavations in regions such as the Galilee area and early Christian catacombs often reveal symbols of loaves and fish, or chalices representing the shared cup. These findings reflect how early believers recognized communion as a deeply reverent practice. Such consistent portrayals across different communities bolster the reliability of New Testament accounts, supporting the notion that the practice has been guarded and upheld since apostolic times.

Importance of a Heart Aligned with Worship

Taking communion is an act of worship that honors God’s redemptive plan. Adhering to a young-earth timeline does not alter the theological significance: from the earliest generations to our present moment, communion calls believers to commemorate Christ’s sacrifice. This central focus on the cross and resurrection resonates with the consistent message found in all reliable New Testament manuscripts—a message reinforced by ongoing textual research demonstrating both the historical veracity of the Gospels and the Pauline Epistles.

Guided by Conscience in the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit, fully divine alongside the Father and the Son, illuminates conscience for true Christians (John 16:8–9). Rejecting or ignoring His conviction can lead to a casual approach to sacred matters. Historical theologians have noted that sensitive obedience to the Spirit proves vital before participating in the Lord’s Table. In alignment with Scripture, believers often refrain from communion if they sense the Spirit’s prompting to resolve an issue first.

Practical Steps for Discernment

1. Ask for Forgiveness: Sincerely repent of known sins and trust in Christ’s cleansing power (1 John 1:9).

2. Seek Reconciliation: Contact those you have wronged or who have wronged you. Strive for peace (Romans 12:18).

3. Review Beliefs: Ensure that you affirm Christ’s full deity, atoning death, and victorious resurrection.

4. Pray for Guidance: Invite the Holy Spirit to check your attitudes, motives, and readiness.

Throughout the centuries, leading apologists such as William Lane Craig and pastors who emphasize evangelism, like Ray Comfort, remind believers that a genuine faith made visible through repentance is essential for any public declaration, including communion. It is an outward expression of an inward reality: new life in Christ.

Conclusion

Christians should abstain from communion only in cases where the heart is knowingly set against God’s truths or where conflict with others remains unresolved. Far from excluding believers permanently, this caution encourages genuine repentance and reconciliation, reflecting the grace that communion itself proclaims. Reviewing the biblical text—preserved faithfully in manuscripts validated by centuries of scholarly research—shows the consistent testimony that Jesus instituted communion for those who humbly align their hearts with His redeeming work.

The path back to worthy participation is always open through confession, faith, and restoration. As a result, communion remains a profound means of glorifying God, testifying to the resurrection of Christ, and celebrating the unity of the church in the gospel.