EXAMINE YOURSELF
Review of Previous Lesson (5 Minutes)
- Recite the previous memory verse
- How did the memory verse influence your activities in the week?
Main Text: 1 Corinthians 11:27-34.
Memory Verse: A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup. – 1 Corinthians 11:28.
Introduction
One of the key objectives of Paul in writing first Corinthians was to correct and instruct the church in Corinth on issues that were affecting their growth, one of which was the manner in which they were taking the Communion. In the ‘love feasts’ which they held along the Communion, some were overfilling themselves while others were left hungry. While the rich were separated to eat their meal, the poor who could not contribute much were ignored Verses 21-22. Paul condemned the behavior because it was encouraging division within the congregation and defeating the purpose of the Communion. He then charged them to examine themselves before partaking in the Lord’s Supper so they do not bring judgement on themselves.
Questions for Discussion
- What is your understanding of ‘eat and drink in an unworthy manner’? Verse 27a.
- Discuss what it means to be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. Verse 27b.
- How can we examine ourselves before partaking in the Holy Communion? Verse 28.
- When does a person eat and drink judgement upon themselves? Verse 29.
- Which factors can prevent a person from partaking in the Lord’s Supper?
Conclusion
In The Church of Pentecost, several behaviors can hinder a member from coming to the Lord’s Table, aside not being baptized in water (by immersion). These include being involved in marital relations without the required customary rites, having more than one spouse, among other public lifestyles that do not glorify God. Members serving suspension for certain misconducts may also not be allowed to partake in the Communion. The most important thing, however, is doing a personal ‘heart-check’ or self-examination to determine whether or not it is appropriate to dine with the Lord. This does not imply being perfect, but rather being sure there are no unconfessed sins or areas in your life which have not been surrendered to the authority of Christ. Like the psalmist, we should genuinely ask God to forgive our hidden faults and be ready to turn away from them.