LORD’S TABLE

Recently after hearing a preacher preach that each congregation is to use one cup (container) at the Lord’s table, I have done some research and study of the Scriptures and I have concluded the following:  First, it would be impossible for all the churches of Christ to use “one cup” (the same container) on the First Day of the Week.  Second, I believe the cup stands for the content of the cup which is the fruit of the vine.  Third, I believe this is a case of the use of figurative language called metonymy.  As related to the Lord’s Supper, the container (the cup) stands for the thing contained.  Fourth, nobody should tell a church that it is not at liberty to use one cup (container) at the Lord’s table.  Fifth, the matter that I question is when one container is required for all churches.

OTHER THOUGHTS

My conclusion about the Lord’s Supper has been taken from the following Scriptures:  Matthew 26: 26-30; Mark 14: 22-26; Luke 22: 14-20, 29-30; Acts 2:42; Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 10:16-17, 21; 1 Corinthians 11:23-34.  As Christian people we need to remember that the Bread represents or is a communion of the Body of Christ and the Fruit of the Vine represents or is a communion of the Blood of Christ.  Another matter we need to remember is that according to Scripture the Lord’s Supper is referred to by different expressions.  One, it is called “Breaking of Bread” (Acts 2:42; Acts 20:7).  Two, it is referred to as Communion (1 Cor. 10:16). Three, it is called the Lord’s Supper (1 Cor. 11:20).  Four, also it is called the Lord’s Table (1 Cor. 10:21).

QUESTIONS

 It might be good to consider some questions as related to the Lord’s Supper.  Who should partake?  Christian people are to commune with the Lord and with one another on the Lord’s Day.  When should a Christian participate at the Lord’s table?  I believe that Scriptures and early documents show that communion should be only on the First Day of the Week.  Why should one partake of the Lord’s Supper?  Two basic reasons.  One, it is to be done in remembrance of Jesus.  Two, it is to be done in order to show the Lord’s death.  Where is a Christian to partake of the Lord’s Supper?  In the gathering or assembly of the church and also early writers indicate it was served to people in prison and to individuals who were sick at home.  My personal feeling is that if a Christian is not able to be in the assembly then in most cases it would not be necessary to partake of the communion.  How should one partake of the Lord’s Supper?  Worship is more than just doing right acts.  It is right attitude and right thinking in awe and praise.  Unless there is a remembrance and communion with the Lord then there is no real partaking of the Lord’s Supper.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

 Sometimes people wonder how to speak of that which represents the Lord’s body.  The Greek word Artos can be translated into English by both bread and loaf; therefore, either expression is acceptable.  Concerning the fruit of the vine, we need to remember the wine (fermented juice of the grape with alcoholic content) is the fruit of the vine and grape juice (unfermented) is the fruit of the vine; therefore, I believe that either can be used at the Lord’s table but I prefer grape juice (unfermented).

CONCLUSION

 In conclusion let’s consider “four looks” at the Lord’s table.  They are the inward look (examine self) , the outward look (Christ died for all), the backward look (Christ’s life, death, burial and resurrection) and the forward look (the Lord’s return).  Be in the assembly of worship and let’s praise the Lord.  Come with a Bible in your hand and a smile on your face and a spring in your step.  I’ll look for you in your place.

-Pat Casey