The Lord's Supper, or Communion, holds a central place in the worship and life of Churches of Christ. It's not merely a symbolic act, but a deeply significant ordinance, believed to be directly commanded by Jesus Christ himself. Understanding the nuances of this practice within the Church of Christ tradition requires exploring its theological underpinnings and practical applications. This post delves into common questions and reflections surrounding Church of Christ communion.
What are the Biblical foundations for Church of Christ Communion?
Churches of Christ ground their understanding of communion in the New Testament scriptures, primarily in Matthew 26:26-29, Mark 14:22-25, Luke 22:14-20, and 1 Corinthians 11:23-26. These passages describe the Last Supper, where Jesus instituted the ordinance, emphasizing the bread representing His body broken for us and the cup representing His blood shed for the forgiveness of sins. The emphasis is on remembering Christ's sacrifice and participating in fellowship with Him and fellow believers. This scriptural basis forms the cornerstone of the Church of Christ's approach to communion.
What makes Church of Christ communion different?
While many Christian denominations observe communion, Churches of Christ typically adhere to a more literal interpretation of the biblical text. Key distinctions often include:
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Open Communion vs. Closed Communion: Churches of Christ generally practice open communion, meaning that all baptized believers, regardless of denominational affiliation, are welcome to participate. This reflects a belief in the unity of the church under Christ.
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Elements Used: The observance uses unleavened bread and unfermented grape juice, mirroring the historical context of the Last Supper.
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Frequency: Communion is often observed weekly in many Churches of Christ, reflecting a desire for regular remembrance of Christ's sacrifice.
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Emphasis on Simplicity: The service is typically simple and unadorned, focusing on the act of remembrance and fellowship.
How is communion viewed in the Church of Christ?
Communion is considered a sacred ordinance, a divinely-appointed act of worship. It's not seen as a mere ritual, but as a profound spiritual experience that:
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Reminds us of Christ's Sacrifice: The central purpose is to remember and meditate on Christ's death on the cross for the forgiveness of sins.
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Unites Believers in Fellowship: Partaking together fosters a sense of unity and shared identity among believers, reflecting the body of Christ.
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Promotes Spiritual Growth: The reflective nature of the service encourages personal growth and spiritual nourishment.
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Is a Symbol of Spiritual Cleansing: The act signifies cleansing and renewal in faith.
Is it necessary to be baptized to partake in Church of Christ Communion?
Most Churches of Christ require baptism by immersion as a prerequisite for participating in communion. This stems from the belief that baptism is a symbol of obedience to Christ and a public declaration of faith. The connection between baptism and communion is rooted in the understanding that communion is a participation in the covenant established by Christ, and baptism is the initiation into that covenant.
What is the significance of the bread and cup?
The bread and cup are not merely symbols, but represent the real body and blood of Christ. Churches of Christ understand this representation in a way that acknowledges the historical and literal act of Christ's sacrifice, while also maintaining the belief in the real presence of Christ with His people during communion. It's not a transubstantiation, but a remembrance and participation in the sacrifice.
What happens during a Church of Christ communion service?
A Church of Christ communion service is typically a simple and solemn occasion. It often includes:
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Prayer: Prayers of thanks and dedication are offered before and after the service.
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Reading of Scripture: Relevant passages are read to set the context and remind participants of Christ's sacrifice.
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Passing of the Elements: Unleavened bread and unfermented grape juice are passed among the congregation.
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Fellowship: Following communion, there is often time for fellowship and conversation.
The Church of Christ communion is a powerful and moving experience for those within the faith. It serves as a regular reminder of Christ's sacrifice, promotes spiritual unity, and fosters a deeper connection with God and fellow believers. Understanding its theological underpinnings and practices provides a valuable insight into the heart of Church of Christ worship.
