The Christian and the Lord’s SupperLesson 19

What is the Lord’s Supper?

1. When it was instituted by Jesus: The night He was betrayed, during passover. Maundy Thursday.

2. The visible elements: unleaven bread and wine.

Jesus Words• Jesus said, “This IS my body.”• Jesus said, “This IS my blood.”

3. Together with these visible elements of bread and wine Jesus gives us His body and His blood. These elements are in communion with each other.

Various Beliefs

Real Presence

Bible

Bread and Wine

Body and Blood of Jesus

Transubstantiation

Roman Catholic

This is denied

Body and Blood of Jesus

Representation

Reformed Churches

Bread and Wine

This is denied

Real Presence

• Jesus’ body and blood are really present with the bread and wine.

Transubstantiation

• The bread and wine are changed to the body and blood.

Representation

• The bread and wine only represent the body and blood of Jesus.

Why Jesus Gave the Lord’s Supper

1. So that we would remember His death and its meaning for us.

2. To assure us of His covenant (promise) of forgiveness for us personally.

For Whom Is the Lord’s Supper

• For repentant disciples (followers) of Jesus who are able to remember the Lord’s death, able to examine themselves, and believe Jesus is really present in this meal.

Questions for Self-Examination

1. Am I sorry for my sins?2. Do I trust in Jesus as my savior?3. Do I believe Jesus’ body and blood are

really present to assure me of forgiveness?4. Do I intend, with God’s help, to live a more

God-pleasing life?

Who Should Not Come to the Lord’s Supper?

1. Non-Christians (disciples of Jesus)2. Those who haven’t been instructed to

know what the Bible says about it.3. Those who are unable to examine

themselves.4. Those who deny that Jesus body and blood

are really present in the bread and wine.

If my faith is weak, should I come to the Lord’s Supper?

• Yes, because God strengthens weak faith through the Lord’s Supper.

How often should I receive the Lord’s Supper?

• Regularly and frequently

Some churches use one large common cup, others use individual cups. Is one better than the other?

• No. Jesus command is to “eat” and “drink.”

The Christian and the Lord’s Supper