Message & Sermon Notes
Divine Dining: The Etiquette of Grace
1 Corinthians 11:17-34
Pastor Jason Carlson
1 Corinthians 11:17-34
Proper etiquette for the Lord’s supper:
1. The Corinthians’ problem (v. 17-22)
John 17:20-23
“church” = ekklesia (assembly, gathering)
Galatians 3:28
1 John 4:7-8
“(In taking communion) Next to the blessed sacrament itself, your neighbor is the holiest object presented to your senses. If he is your Christian neighbor, he is holy in almost the same way, for in him also Christ- the glorifier and the glorified, Glory Himself- is truly hidden.” – C.S. Lewis
The Corinthians’ abuse of the Lord’s Supper:
• Disunity, division, dishonor
• Lack of hospitality and love
• Gluttony and drunkenness
2. The Lord’s purpose (v. 23-26)
Communion is an opportunity to:
1) Look back to the cross
John 6:35, 51, 58
Romans 3:10, 23
Romans 6:23a
Leviticus 17:11
Hebrews 9:22
Hebrews 10:4, 11-12
Romans 6:23
John 1:29
Isaiah 53:5
John 3:16
The Gospel = Euangelion (Good News!)
Ephesians 2:8-9
2) Look forward to the crown
Isaiah 25:6-9
“Should the Lord’s Supper be solemn or cheerful? I’m saying it should not be either-or… There is a solemnity with explosive joy, and there is sweet cheerfulness whose eyes are brimming with tears.” – John Piper
3) Look in at our conscience
3. The Apostle’s prescription (v. 27-34)
Paul’s prescription for participation in the Lord’s Supper?
1) Examine your heart
Psalm 139:23-24
1 John 1:9
2) Examine your heart in regard to the body
1 Corinthians 10:16-17
Matthew 5:23-24
Hebrews 12:5-7, 10-11
Philippians 2:3-8
Sermon Discussion Questions
Questions for reflection:
1. How has today’s teaching informed your understanding of the meaning and practice of the Lord’s Supper?
2. Why must Christians strive for unity? Are there fellow believers in your life that God might be calling you to reconcile with?
Questions for discussion:
1. Why was division among believers at the Lord’s Supper so negative and damaging in Paul’s view?
2. What does the Lord’s Supper teach about Christ’s past and future work? Is this a cause for solemnity or rejoicing?
3. In what ways does Paul’s teaching today offer both a word of warning and hope to followers of Christ?
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