The Lord's Supper, or Communion, holds a central place in the worship and life of Churches of Christ. Understanding its meaning and significance requires a careful examination of scripture and an appreciation for the historical context within the Restoration Movement. This exploration delves into the core beliefs surrounding this sacred ordinance, addressing common questions and offering insights into its enduring importance.
What is the meaning of Communion in the Church of Christ?
Communion, for Churches of Christ, is not merely a symbolic act but a deeply spiritual experience commemorating Jesus Christ's sacrifice. It's a remembrance of his death, burial, and resurrection, a powerful act of worship that unites believers in a shared fellowship and reaffirms their commitment to Christ. We understand it literally, as a participation in the broken body and shed blood of Jesus, a representation of the new covenant established through his sacrifice (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). It's not merely about remembering, but about actively participating in the ongoing benefits of Christ's atonement. This understanding shapes our approach to the practice itself.
How often does the Church of Christ celebrate Communion?
Churches of Christ generally observe Communion weekly, reflecting the early church's regular practice (Acts 2:42) and emphasizing the ongoing nature of our relationship with Christ. The frequency reinforces the importance of remembering Christ's sacrifice and maintaining a consistent spiritual focus throughout the week. This isn't a rigid rule, however; some churches may have slightly different schedules depending on their local context and needs. The emphasis remains on regular, consistent observance.
What are the elements of Communion in the Church of Christ?
The elements of Communion in Churches of Christ are unleavened bread and unfermented grape juice. This aligns with our understanding of the historical practice of the early church and a commitment to adhering closely to biblical precedent. We believe using these simple elements keeps the focus on Christ and his sacrifice, rather than on elaborate rituals or symbolic interpretations.
What is the significance of partaking in Communion?
Partaking in Communion is an act of obedience, expressing our commitment to follow Christ's teachings and example. It's a public declaration of our faith, a moment of reflection and remembrance, and a time to renew our commitment to live lives pleasing to God. Moreover, it's an opportunity for spiritual nourishment and fellowship, strengthening our bonds with fellow believers. It's a visible demonstration of the unity we share in Christ.
Why is the Church of Christ so strict about Communion?
The emphasis on the simplicity and biblical accuracy of Communion in Churches of Christ stems from our core belief in the restoration of New Testament Christianity. We seek to follow the pattern established in the scriptures as closely as possible, believing this approach leads to a more authentic and meaningful expression of faith. Our "strictness," therefore, is rooted in our commitment to biblical fidelity and a desire for genuine spiritual growth and unity within the body of Christ. It is a commitment to avoid deviations that might distract from the central message of Christ's sacrifice.
What does open communion mean in the Church of Christ?
While some groups might use the term "open communion," most Churches of Christ practice what is often called "closed communion." This means that only those who profess faith in Jesus Christ and are baptized by immersion are typically invited to partake. This practice is based on our understanding of 1 Corinthians 10:16-17, which highlights the nature of communion as a participation in the body and blood of Christ, therefore only those who are members of the body of Christ – as understood within the Church of Christ – are invited to participate.
This article provides a broad overview. Individual Churches of Christ may have slight variations in practice, but the core principles regarding the significance and practice of Communion remain consistent across the fellowship. The focus remains on honoring Christ, remembering his sacrifice, and strengthening the bonds of fellowship among believers.
