1 Corinthians 10:16-17 The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break… I. THIS ORDINANCE PERTAINS PECULIARLY TO BELIEVERS IN CHRIST IN EVERY AGE. 1. The doctrine of the Scriptures is that it pertains to believers only. The instructions here given as to the state of mind in which communicants should partake, show that this ordinance is intended exclusively for them (1 Corinthians 5:7, 8; 1 Corinthians 11:27-30). Few but the self-righteous and pharisaical appear to be in error here: for wicked persons confess frankly that none but the godly are qualified to partake of it. 2. The observance is enjoined by Christ on all His disciples (Luke 22:19; Matthew 26:27). There are two classes of persons to whom these remarks are more particularly applicable: young disciples of Christ; and those whose faith is but weak and wavering. In religion assistance comes not in the way of abstaining from, but of compliance with, the will of your Lord. Wait on the Lord, then, and He will renew your strength. II. ITS CHIEF OBJECT. To bring the souls of the communicants into fellowship with the body and blood of Christ. 1. For this object the ordinance is commemorative of Christ. The broken bread which we here eat brings to our wandering and forgetful minds the remembrance of that precious body. The wine poured out brings to our remembrance that precious blood which was shed on the Cross. In this ordinance the Saviour has thus recorded His name for ever, and this is His memorial throughout all generations. 2. It is an ordinance in which we are warranted to expect the special presence of Christ. Wherever but two or three are met in His name, at His ordinance, and in dependence on the fulfilment of His promise, there is He in the midst of them. III. THE STATE OF MIND IN WHICH BELIEVERS SHOULD JOIN IN IT. This as taught in the text is a spirit of thankfulness. "The cup of blessing which we bless." 1. You should here bless God for the gift of His Son to be our Saviour. 2. You should here bless Christ for giving Himself. 3. You should here bless the Holy Spirit for applying the merits of Christ to your souls. (C. Lee.) Parallel Verses KJV: The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? |
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