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NASB | 1 Corinthians 11:25 In the same way He took the cup also after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me." |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 1 Corinthians 11:25 In the same way, after supper He took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant [ratified and established] in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in [affectionate] remembrance of Me." |
Subject: Communion, how often? |
Bible Note: Dear Joe, Thank you for your answer. I guess it's time for me to 'fess up' about my thoughts on this issue. In my church we also celebrate communion once a month. Like you, I could enjoy sharing the loaf and the cup more often than that. However, I do think that for many saints more often might breed familiarity. We exclude unbelievers for obvious reasons. The eldership of my church also agrees that having children wait until they have repented and been baptized (12-15 years old) is appropriate, giving them something to strive for and hope in, an act of faith. Guests that profess Jesus as Savior are welcome to join us. We use a real loaf of uncut bread, the pastor or elder breaks it after prayer and passes it to the congregation. Each takes a portion, then passes to the next person. When all have a piece, we go to someone, offer them to take a bit of our piece, and take a bit of theirs, eat together and bless one another in Jesus' name. Then to another saint. This sharing of the bread can take some time, even in a small church, but we are not in a rush. After the bread (no set time), we drink the wine (juice) using disposable cups. We used to share the cup literally with a large chalice (I prefer this), but hygiene became an issue of contention, so we went the 'safe' route. As others have said, we believe this is a special, holy time. After singing a hymn or chorus, we end the meeting, then have a fellowship meal together. Our desire is to follow the pattern set for us in the Bible, but we hold no 'mystical' thoughts about the elements. Though they are bread and juice, they represent exactly what the Lord said they do. The broken body of Christ made whole in the sharing of the loaf, and drinking of the shed blood of Jesus to the effect of forgiveness of sins. I have much enjoyed the various comments and expressions of faith in this line of postings. Bless you, Joe, and all of you in Jesus' name, charis |