Last Supper Lord s Supper

Size: px
Start display at page:

Download "Last Supper Lord s Supper"

Transcription

1 Last Supper Lord s Supper Looking Again at New Testament Texts A Study Guide by Keith Watkins g Session One / Introduction The defining element in Christian worship is the coming together around a table spread with bread and wine or grape juice. This practice began in the earliest days of the church s life, quickly developed into its primary act of worship, and then became part of the church s life wherever Christians went with their story of good news in Jesus Christ. This defining act of worship has developed many variations in how it is conducted. Its meaning has been explained in many ways, from simple testimonies of faith to complex theological expositions. In every generation, as Christians review their understanding of worship, part of the process is to read and think about the apostolic writings that support the faith and life of the church. Beginning with the Bible All Christians, from early times until now, and around the entire world, possess this collection of writings and consider them to be important. They give us information about the church s life and ideas during the first half century of its life, a period important in setting the trajectory for the future development of worship and Christian theology. Biblical texts offer theological interpretations of the early church s definitive act of worship, and these interpretations have influenced later understanding and practice in churches around the world. Keith Watkins writes on history, theology, and bicycling. He lives in Vancouver, Washington, just north of the Columbia River from Portland, Oregon. hkwatkins@mac.com Copyright 2010 Keith Watkins

2 2 Last Supper Lord s Supper Because the accounts are multi-layered, requiring careful study, they can give us new insights whenever we approach the Bible with new questions. What we know with reasonable confidence about Christian worship during the period described by the New Testament Table-centered worship emerged in a religious and cultural context in which meals were important modes of relationship, on the horizontal axis with other people and on the vertical axis with God. Jesus meals, on ordinary occasions and on religious occasions, were important enough to be featured in the memory documents that emerged during the church s first and formative half century. Ceremonies with bread and wine, rooted in earlier Jewish religious history, combined with full meals, were distinguishing characteristics of early Christian worship. Even when the meals disappeared, ceremonies and prayers with bread and wine continued. The New Testament contains a cluster of interconnected ideas and fragments of texts about worship that inspire, stimulate, puzzle, and critique Christian practice at every time. Even in the New Testament period, ideas and practices were in flux. One constant was the use of ceremonies and prayers with bread and wine to mediate the gospel of God s grace freely given through Jesus Christ. Bringing our own issues to the study of the Bible Every generation brings its own issues to the study of the New Testament texts issues rooted in the generation s life experiences, cultural conditions, intellectual processes, and technical scholarship. The history of Christian worship provides a record of successive efforts to engage the first Christians in a discussion about the Christian approach to living with God, the world, and one another. To some degree, all of these previous conversations hover in the background and complicate the process of reengaging the first Christians about the vision of life and the gospel of grace. Discussion Points 1) What are some of your early and/or memorable experiences of the Lord s Supper? 2) What aspects of the Lord s Supper enhance your spiritual life? 3) What aspects of the Lord s Supper are problematic to you?

3 Last Supper Lord s Supper 3 4) What questions do you have about the meaning of the Lord s Supper? What suggestions do you have for revising the way that this service is conducted? Personal note (1):

4 4 Last Supper Lord s Supper Session Two / Last Supper-Lord s Supper The most important event in developing Christian worship was the meal that Jesus ate with his closest friends on the night before his arrest, trial, and crucifixion. It is fittingly called the Last Supper. Perhaps the most important development in the churches first decades of life was the transformation of last supper into the Lord s Supper. The evening meal that Jesus shared with his disciples included a ceremony with a loaf of bread before the meal itself and a ceremony with a cup of wine after the meal. Jesus acted as host, offering the prayers that were traditional for special occasions. Jesus added an unexpected feature by referring to the bread as his body and the cup as his blood. He told them that from that time onward when they did this they should remember him. Henceforth, the covenant that God had long ago made with their people was to be understood in a new way. Jesus was himself to be at the center of this new understanding of God s covenant and his shedding of blood was to take the place of the blood that had been the seal of the covenant in ancient times. This last meal so impressed itself upon the consciousness of Jesus closest followers, that it became the organizing motif of their gatherings to study the sacred writings, pray, and renew their vows to God. Luke 22:7-30; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 Although the wording differs a little, Luke and Paul present closely parallel accounts of Jesus last supper with his closest friends on the night before his betrayal, trial, and crucifixion. Features that these two accounts share include: Perhaps the most important is the fact that a full meal was eaten between the ceremony and prayer over bread and the ceremony and prayer with the cup. Some scholars believe that the Luke-Paul version of the institution may represent the way that the Lord s Supper was celebrated in Antioch at the time that Paul was converted. A second noteworthy aspect of the Luke-Paul words of institution is that they include the words do this in remembrance of me. They were given not so much as a command to repeat but rather as instruction about a new meaning to be added to the prayers and ceremonies whenever Jesus friends met at table. Two things are noteworthy about Luke s account: a) It has two cups, one used to focus prayers before the meal and the other used for a similar purpose after the meal.

5 Last Supper Lord s Supper 5 b) Luke understands that Jesus and the twelve were eating the Passover, following the traditional rituals. Jesus added a new factor, however, by referring to the bread as his body, which was being given for them and the cup of wine as the new covenant in his blood. He referred to the coming kingdom of God in which the structures of power would disappear, with the greatest among them becoming like the youngest and the leader like one who serves. He promises that those who stood by him in his trials would eat and drink at my table in my kingdom. Paul s account is noteworthy because it was used to resolve a controversy that had developed in the church in Corinth. The full meal had become increasingly divisive to the congregation because it divided the congregation along class lines: rich and poor, politically advantaged and underclass. Paul stressed that their gatherings were to focus upon remembering Jesus, proclaiming his death until he comes again, and entering into the new covenant that he had sealed with his own blood. References to covenant in Luke and 1 Corinthians seem to draw upon the Old Testament passage of Jeremiah 31: There, the writer tells of a time when God will establish a new covenant with God s people. God s law would be put within them and I will write it on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. The covenantal relationship between God and the followers of Jesus included a way of life (note the reference to God s law), but the power of this way of life was greater than the written terms of a legal contract. It was inscribed at the deepest level of human motivation and action. Furthermore, God s side of the covenant was certified by something much more elemental than a sworn statement; it was sealed by the deepest possible act of friendship, the shedding of one s blood on behalf of the other. The implication for the people of Corinth was that they, too, had to give themselves fully to God and one another. God s covenant with them was to bring about a covenantal relationship between the people of the church regardless of their placement in the social structure of their community. Mark 14:22-25; Matthew 26:26-29 Matthew s account of the Last Supper appears to be a slightly enlarged version of the one given by Mark. Both accounts have a smoothness in language that suggests long usage in public worship. Because there is no reference to a meal in the bread-cup language, scholars believe that this text reflects usage that is later than the usage described in Luke and I Corinthians. These accounts may represent the normal practice of the church in Jerusalem.

6 6 Last Supper Lord s Supper Matthew is the only one of these four writers who was present at the Last Supper. He includes a statement by Jesus that does not appear in Mark s account or in the version given by Luke and Paul. Interpreting the meaning of the cup, Jesus says that it is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. This phrase may be inspired by insights from Isaiah 52:13ff. In his commentary on Matthew, Daniel J. Harrington suggests that it climaxes Matthew s special emphasis upon Jesus power to forgive sins (see Matt. 1:21; 5:23-24; 6:12, 14, 15; 9:6; 18:21-35). Like Luke and Paul, Matthew and Mark draw upon Old Testament language of the covenant. Their inspiration, however, is the covenant that was established at Sinai (Ex. 24:4-8). This text describes the formation of the Jewish people under the leadership of Moses as they traveled from slavery in Egypt to a new political freedom in the territory between the Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River. The ancient rite of animal sacrifice was used to consecrate the agreement between God and the people, and the blood of the slain animals was first dashed on the altar. Then the book of the covenant was read and the people declared, All that the Lord has spoken we will do, and we will be obedient. Moses then took the blood and dashed it on the people, with these words, See the blood of the covenant that the Lord has made with you in accordance with these words. The Words of Institution in Christian Worship Throughout Christian history, the Words of Institution have been used in celebrating the Lord s Supper. In most traditions, a composite version has been included in the communion prayer itself. Some churches, especially those that were influenced by Calvin s reforms, prefer to use these words as part of the devotional preparation for communion. Either way, the Words of Institution have connected Christians of every time and place with the events that climaxed the life and ministry of Jesus. The continuing challenge facing the church as it prepares and conducts worship is to find ways of helping each new generation enter into the memory that shapes the church s identity and is the basis for Christian faith. Discussion Points 1) Although the wording of these four accounts differs in several ways, there is an underlying unity. How would you describe the factors that are very much alike in all four accounts? 2) What did Jesus mean when he said that the bread is his body and the wine is his blood? 3) What feelings does this language stimulate in you?

7 Last Supper Lord s Supper 7 4) How do you respond to Matthew s inclusion of the phrase for the forgiveness of sins? 5) How would you combine and rephrase these texts for use in worship today? Personal note (2):

8 8 Last Supper Lord s Supper Session Three / Theological Reflections in the Gospel of John John s report of the Last Supper differs from the other three in that he does not record Jesus statements about bread and wine and his body and blood. Instead, his Last Supper account fills chapters 13 through 17 and records a ceremony in which Jesus washes the disciples feet. Some of the most memorable of Jesus teaching appears in these chapters, including extensive interpretation of the meaning of his death, which would soon come. In these chapters, Jesus promises to send the Holy Spirit to be their comforter and friend. In chapter 6, John presents another set of teachings which, many readers believe, help us to understand what Jesus meant by the sacred meal. The chapter includes several sections: 1. the feeding of the 5,000 (6:1-14); 2. a private conversation in which Jesus explains to his disciples the meaning of that event (6:25-40); 3. a two-part exchange between Jesus and some people who disputed his understanding of the scriptures (6:41-51, and 6:52-59); and 4. a decision by some of the people to turn away from Jesus and no longer follow him. Among the themes that John uses in this chapter, the following are note worthy: 1) The chapter includes overtones of the Old Testament story of God sending manna from heaven to feed the Israelites who were wandering in the wilderness (Ex. 16:31). 2) The entire passage reverberates with the importance of faith on the part of those who follow Jesus and participate in the ceremonies with bread and wine. 3) There is a strong emphasis upon the physical elements and upon Jesus body and blood. One reason may be that John was countering some people, whom historians refer to as Docetists, who denied that Jesus was real and who insisted that the crucifixion was non-physical. This emphasis also conveys the idea that divine realities are transmitted by means of physical elements. 4) Jesus emphasizes, however, that it is the Spirit that give life.

9 Last Supper Lord s Supper 9 Discussion Points: 1. How does the fact that a miraculous meal for 5,000 people is the occasion for Jesus teaching, rather than the Last Supper with his closest friends, affect our understanding of the Lord s Supper? 2. Jesus refers to faith or belief (e.g., 6:36, 40,47, 64). He also seems to downplay the realism of his language (e.g., 6:63). Why does Jesus use both kinds of language literal and symbolic in describing the bread and wine? Which kind of language is more important? 3. One interpretation of this chapter is that the middle section (6:35-47) is an interpretation of the scripture-sermon part of worship and the latter section (6:48-59) is an interpretation of the communion part of worship. The first chapter of John emphasizes the importance of the Word that was with God in the beginning and then became flesh). Does this line of interpretation make sense? Personal note (3):

10 10 Last Supper Lord s Supper Session Four / A Tradition Develops Luke and Acts were written by the same author who described his intention and methods in the first few verses of the Gospel. Following the example of others, he wanted to present an orderly account of the events that have been fulfilled among us (Luke 1:1-4). Therefore he was investigating everything carefully from the very first so that his reader may know the truth concerning the things about which you have been instructed. The brevity of these books and the author s narrative style indicate that his primary interest was in the meaning of Jesus life and the church s formative decade rather than in the details of the thirty-year period that his history covers. Three episodes from Luke s history are especially useful in portraying the emergence of table-centered worship in the early years of the church s life. Luke 24:13-35: This text reports the experience of two of the followers of Jesus on the first Easter. The story reaches its climax in a supper at the end of the day. Before they eat, the guest offers a meal blessing that would have been normal practice for all of them. He added a feature, however, that Jesus had introduced three nights earlier: when you do this, remember me. that when they prayed this way they should remember him. The friends recognized that the stranger in their midst was Jesus himself. Scarcely believing, they hurried back to other Disciples in Jerusalem, shouting out that Jesus had been made known to them in the breaking of the bread (Luke 24:35). The intellectual knowledge they had been gaining from scripture study during the day was converted to religious understanding when they performed the familiar ritual with bread and the cup of blessing. Acts 2: 37-47: Luke presents an abridged account of the church s earliest weeks of life, when the experience of Christ s resurrection was vivid and the intensity of the fellowship swept away practical concerns. Although these first Christians continued to practice Jewish temple worship, they were already developing alternative Christian practices that created a new, spiritualized version of the temple sacrifices and a revised story line for traditional domestic meals with religious overtones. These gatherings were marked by great joy and social distinctions between people seemed to disappear. The focus of their life as a Christian community was neither the altar in the temple nor the teacher s desk in the synagogue. It was now a table around which they ate the meals they needed for physical nurture and re-

11 Last Supper Lord s Supper 11 ceived the spiritual food and drink that connected them to Jesus, their friend who had conquered death. Acts 6:1-7: This text gives an example of the Jerusalem church in action early in its life. Church members took care of one another, sharing their resources and making sure that people with special needs like widows and orphans were supported. In time, however, practical considerations became increasingly important. Ethnic tensions began to develop among them and fiscal challenges were arising. It became necessary to delegate responsibilities. Apostolic leaders like Peter declared that preaching and praying were especially important duties and should be delegated to leaders like themselves. Others were elected by the church to distribute the contributions to people in need. Some of these elected leaders also were evangelistic preachers. Discussion Points: 1) In your own words summarize Luke s account of how the Lord s Supper became a distinguishing mark of Christian worship. 2) How would Christian worship and church life have been different if the first Christians had continued with eating a full meal as part of their worship life? 3) How has the church in later generations been affected by the decision to focus worship upon a table rather than pulpit, prayer desk, or music center? 4) Which kind of church is best able to communicate with younger generations table centered, word centered, or music centered? Personal note (4):

12 12 Last Supper Lord s Supper Session Five / The Church as the Body of Christ The most extended theological writings in the New Testament were produced by Paul. Although not one of the original group of twelve, he became an early follower of Jesus and soon overshadowed the Disciples. He spoke of himself as an apostle and believed that he had been commissioned by Jesus to be a special leader of the church. Some scholars believe that Paul misunderstood Jesus and that his ministry distorted the simple message of Jesus. Other scholars believe that Paul understood Jesus better than anyone else of that generation and that because of Paul Jesus message became the foundation for the worldwide religion that Christianity has become. Paul s teachings about the Lord s Supper are the centerpiece to a multi-chapter discussion of the church s worship. Intertwined with Paul s ideas about worship is his doctrine of the church. A central claim in Paul s theology is that the phrase body of Christ has three references: the physical body of Jesus of Nazareth, the body that Jesus had in mind when he held out the loaf of bread and said this is my body, and the body, with Jesus as the head, that the church is to become. Although Paul easily mixes and matches these references, he does not give a clear explanation of what he means. No wonder that readers and worshipers are sometimes confused! The most sustained discussion of Christian worship in the Bible is recorded in Paul s first letter to the church in Corinth. Although he includes serious references to worship in chapters 8 and 9, the sections with particular relevance for this study begin with chapter 10. Throughout these chapters, Paul refers to Old Testament themes that would have been familiar to his first readers to present his understanding of Christian worship. 1 Corinthians 10:14-22, 31-11:1: This passage describes the ceremonies with bread and wine as communion, a sharing in the body of Christ. By their participating in this service, Christians are united with Jesus and with one another. The frequent reference to idols and the worship of idols makes it clear that in its early years Christianity was competing in a lively religious marketplace. Religious ritual and social-political were tightly intertwined, and part of the church s work was to develop its own tradition in contra-distinction from the religious-societal systems of their time.

13 Last Supper Lord s Supper 13 1 Corinthians 11:17-34: Here Paul seeks to correct abuses in the Corinthian church. Class and economic distinctions were being brought into the way that the church was celebrating the Lord s Supper. Furthermore, the mode of celebration gave less attention to the historical events, which included the crucifixion, than Paul believed should be the case. One interpretation of this episode that has been popular is that the celebrations in Corinth were so focused on the resurrection and its joyful implications that they overlooked or minimized too much the crucifixion and death of Jesus. By insisting on the words of institution, according to this interpretation, Paul was restoring balance.. 1 Corinthians 12:4-13: A practical description of the church as the Body of Christ is given in this part of 1 Corinthians. Despite the realism of his language about eating Christ s body and drinking his blood, Paul s language also emphasizes the importance of the Holy Spirit. He also describes the church as Christ s body. Throughout this section of the book, he seems to make no effort to distinguish between literal and spiritual uses of his language. Bread is Jesus body, but it is also bread, and also the church. Is any of these references literal and the others spiritual? Or one of them spiritual and the others literal? Paul gives us little help in trying to sort out his language. 1 Corinthians 13:1-13: The great chapter on love describes the primary quality of the way of life that grows out of participation in the Lord s Supper. Here the ritual activities with bread and wine disappear, as does the emphasis upon the church as the fellowship of believers. The emphasis is upon the distinctive character of life that Christians one by one are to exhibit because of their participation in Christ and his church. The value of handing over one s body is less important than living in love. 1 Corinthians 15:35-58: Despite his emphasis upon flesh and blood and suffering and death, Paul climaxes this lengthy discussion of worship with the Bible s longest description of life that overpowers death. It starts with Jesus and continues to those who are referred to as brothers and sisters. Paul affirms that our perishable bodies will some day put on imperishability. This transformation is made possible by the resurrection of Jesus, which is even more important for Christians than the crucifixion.

14 14 Last Supper Lord s Supper Discussion Points: 1) Describe the tone of this long passage about worship with bread and wine at the communion table? 2) How would you distinguish between literal and symbolic or spiritual meanings? 3) How does eating and drinking Christ s body and blood in the communion service enable the church to become Christ s body? 4) In 10:16, 17, Paul uses sharing and participation in Christ s body rather than eating and drinking. How does this alternative language affect the tone of the discussion? Which way of describing the connection with Jesus at the communion table do you prefer? Why? Personal note (5):

15 Last Supper Lord s Supper 15 Session Six / Themes Derived from New Testament Materials Classic studies of the Lord s Supper in the New Testament have tended to focus upon a short list of ideas. The Lord s Supper is described as: Thanksgiving: In his social meals and at the last supper, Jesus set the example by a prayer of thanksgiving (also called a blessing). He was following traditional Jewish practice of reciting the gifts of God to the people as the way to express deep gratitude. From earliest times until now, thanksgiving at the communion table has included references to God s actions in nature and history and to Jesus Christ who expresses God s special actions on our behalf. Communion or fellowship: At the table, the words and actions renew the relationship between worshipers and God and among themselves. Commemoration or the historical aspect: Two of the descriptions of the last supper include remembrance as one of the purposes of this action of the church. Jesus knew that his followers would continue to eat together and remember the things that God had done for them through history. Now he adds a new element to the list, an element that transcends all of the others in importance. Henceforth, they should remember him and what he had done for them. Sacrifice: The bringing of sacrifices to God was deeply engrained in the religious practice of antiquity, including the temple worship of the Jewish people. Jesus and most of the first Christians had regularly participated in this kind of worship. The word itself and ideas about the meaning of this practice became part of the church s vocabulary. Sacrifice was sometimes used to describe the meaning of Jesus death on the cross. He gave himself as a sacrifice for us. The word was also used to describe the action of Christians who brought a sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving to God. Mystery and presence: One meaning infused the others. At the table, Christians became aware of a direct connection with a living presence, with the same Lord Jesus Christ whom they had known before the passion of Holy Week. Although they had little success in formulating a theological statement about how he was present, they were empowered by the reality of the experience. The Swedish scholar who formulated the above list of five themes, calls attention to the tendency throughout Christian history of emphasizing one or another of these themes and suppress others. Scholars and

16 16 Last Supper Lord s Supper other church leaders have desired to make their particular theories into standards for remodeling the eucharistic practice of their own day. After acknowledging that liturgy can be reformed from time to time, he says that it preserves the treasures of the past, even when contemporary opinion sees little value in them, till in course of time their value is rediscovered, maybe, by a later generation. (Yngve Brilioth, Eucharistic Faith and Practice: Evangelical and Catholic, 14). Themes that call for new expression in table-centered worship Incarnation: we can develop the implications of the doctrine of incarnation, which we see most clearly in Jesus, by proclaiming the natural world to be a place where we meet God and enjoy life with God and one another. Reconciliation: we can establish a new balance between ideas such as reconciliation, transformation, and becoming Christ like and doctrines such as sacrifice, atonement, and justification. Friendship: One of the important ideas in table-centered worship is that Jesus calls us his friends and invites us to meet him at the table, thus enjoying this friendship with him and enlarging that friendship to include everyone else whom we meet there. This emphasis provides balance to the emphasis upon receiving Christ s body and blood in the elements of bread and wine. Glory: Both in the Bible and in later Christian tradition, two themes vie for importance, Jesus as an expression of God s glory and Jesus as the suffering servant who embodies the tragedy of life. While both themes are important, it makes a difference, which is the stronger partner. When the world is so filled with pain and despair, the radiant hope that in Christ God makes all things new needs to be central in the church s preaching, worship, and life. Paradise: Through much of the church s history, worship, and especially worship around the communion table, was the manifestation in this world of God s purpose for the world and our life in history: that here we experience the paradise that started in the Garden of Eden and will be perfected in the New Jerusalem. Discussion Points: 1) What are some of the spiritual and intellectual challenges that face us today? What questions do they generate as we review worship practices in churches like ours? 2) How does this review of New Testament accounts help us connect with the earliest Christian under-

17 Last Supper Lord s Supper 17 standings about the new way of life that Jesus pioneered? How does this study help us evaluate and revise our own worship practices? 3) With respect to worship, how should we balance the ideas of people in our church today with the ideas in churches at other times and places? To what degree is the history of worship important in shaping the worship that we conduct in our church? 4) How does this study of New Testament texts impact church leaders as they select hymns, prepare prayers, and organize worship around the communion table? How can worship be faithful to the classic tradition and at the same time express the mind, mood, and music of our time? Personal note (6):

18 18 Last Supper Lord s Supper Words of Institution in the New Testament Mark 14:22-25 Matthew 26: Corinthians 11:23-26 While they were eating, he took a loaf of bread, and after blessing it he broke it, gave it to them, and said, Take, this is my body. Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he gave it to them, and all of them drank from it. He said to them, This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. Truly I tell you, I will never drink of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God. While they were eating, Jesus took a loaf of bread, and after blessing it he broke it, gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he gave it to them, saying, Drink from it, all of you; for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will never again drink of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father s kingdom. For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night that he was betrayed took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, This is my body that is for you. Do this in remembrance of me. 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. For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord s death until he comes. Luke 22:15-20 He said to them, I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer, for I tell you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God. Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he said, Take this and divide it among yourselves; for I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes. Then he took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me. And he did the same with the cup after supper, saying, This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.

19 Last Supper Lord s Supper 19 Words of Institution in Three Eucharistic Prayers Book of Common Worship (Presbyterian 1993) Example of Late 20th Century Ecumenical Consensus We give you thanks that the Lord Jesus on the night before he died, took bread, and after giving thanks to you, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take, eat. This is my body, given for you. Do this in remembrance of me. In the same way he took the cup, saying: This cup is the new covenant sealed in my blood, Shed for you for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, Do this in remembrance of me. (84 words; based on 1 Corinthians 11:23-25, with the addition of the line shed for you for the forgiveness of sins, from Matthew 26:28) Concluding Words Remembering your mighty acts in Jesus Christ, we take from your creation this bread and wine and joyfully celebrate his dying and rising, as we await the day of his coming. With thanksgiving, we offer our very selves to you to be a living and holy sacrifice dedicated to your service. Book of Worship (United Church of Christ 1986) We remember that on the night of betrayal and desertion, Jesus took bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread and gave it to the disciples, saying: This is my body which is broken for you. Do this in remembrance of me. In the same way, Jesus took the cup after supper, saying: This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me. (73 words; attributed to 1 Corinthians 11:23-25) Breaking and Pouring Through the broken bread We participate in the body of Christ. Through the cup of blessing We participate in the new life Christ gives. (derived from 1 Corinthians 10:16-17) A Wee Worship Book (Iona Community 1991) Among friends, gathered round a table, Jesus took bread, broke it and said, This is my body, it is broken for you. And later he took the cup of wine and said, This is the new relationship with God, made possible because of my death. Take this all of you to remember me. (51 words) Invitation He whom the universe could not contain, is present to us in this bread. He who redeemed us and called us by name now meets us in this cup. So take this bread and this wine. In them God comes to us so that we may come to God.

20 20 Last Supper Lord s Supper

Believe Chapter 5: Identity in Christ

Believe Chapter 5: Identity in Christ Key Verse: Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God. John 1:12 (NIV) The word right (exousia) may be misleading since it suggests a

More information

(1 Corinthians 11:20) When you come together, it is not really to eat the Lord's supper.

(1 Corinthians 11:20) When you come together, it is not really to eat the Lord's supper. 1 Corinthians 11:20-34 New Revised Standard Version November 26, 2017 The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School Lessons Series) for Sunday, November 26, 2017, is from 1 Corinthians 11:20-34

More information

Lord s Day Supper How Often Do We Eat? Westminster And The Supper

Lord s Day Supper How Often Do We Eat? Westminster And The Supper Lord s Day Supper How Often Do We Eat? Jesus Christ on the night that he was betrayed took bread and wine, gave thanks, and gave them to his disciples with the words: "Take, eat; this is my body" and "This

More information

J.J.- Jesu Juva Help me, Jesus. And as they were eating, he took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave

J.J.- Jesu Juva Help me, Jesus. And as they were eating, he took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave 1 April 21, 2011 Sermon for Maundy Thursday St Peter Lutheran Church Bowie, TX Larry Knobloch, Pastor Mark 14:22-25 (ESV) J.J.- Jesu Juva Help me, Jesus 22 And as they were eating, he took bread, and after

More information

Eucharist 2. The Eucharist as a Meal

Eucharist 2. The Eucharist as a Meal Eucharist 2 The Eucharist as a Meal Meals in the Ancient World Meals in the Ancient World! Meals were more than an occasion for eating and drinking: they were a sacred time, a time for thanksgiving to

More information

THE RITE OF THE EUCHARIST: A Consideration Of Roots

THE RITE OF THE EUCHARIST: A Consideration Of Roots THE RITE OF THE EUCHARIST: A Consideration Of Roots Jesus was a Jew, so were the twelve Disciples and the Apostle Paul along, with many if not the majority - of the members of the Early Church. Jesus and

More information

Spiritual Formation and the Lord s Supper: Remembering, Receiving, and Sharing

Spiritual Formation and the Lord s Supper: Remembering, Receiving, and Sharing Spiritual Formation and the Lord s Supper: Remembering, Receiving, and Sharing 1 MEANS OF GRACE How does God work to change our lives? For centuries, God s people have answered this question by pointing

More information

Looking Intently at the Communion Emblems Luke 22:15 20

Looking Intently at the Communion Emblems Luke 22:15 20 January 3, 2016 AM Pastor Ken Hepner Looking Intently at the Communion Emblems Luke 22:15 20 Introduction: This morning we are beginning 2016 gathered around the emblems of the Lord s Supper, the Communion

More information

THE LAST SUPPER MATTHEW 26:17-30

THE LAST SUPPER MATTHEW 26:17-30 THE LAST SUPPER MATTHEW 26:17-30 We live in a society that is crazy about anything new. We are anxious to upgrade our cell phones every year, we tend to think the latest workout craze will be better than

More information

Luke 22: The Last Supper (Maundy Thursday)

Luke 22: The Last Supper (Maundy Thursday) Luke 22: 14-22 The Last Supper (Maundy Thursday) If possible, have a small loaf of bread or some matzoh on a plate, and communion cups (or medicine cups) with cranberry or grape juice on a tray. Cover

More information

A Quiet Day Celebrating, Instructing, and more deeply Experiencing the Holy Eucharist March 5, 2016

A Quiet Day Celebrating, Instructing, and more deeply Experiencing the Holy Eucharist March 5, 2016 A Quiet Day Celebrating, Instructing, and more deeply Experiencing the Holy Eucharist March 5, 2016 9:30 a.m. In the Church Welcome --Fr. Furman Blessed be God Collect for Purity Gloria in Excelsis, Kyrie,

More information

1 Corinthians 11:20-34 New American Standard Bible November 26, 2017

1 Corinthians 11:20-34 New American Standard Bible November 26, 2017 1 Corinthians 11:20-34 New American Standard Bible November 26, 2017 The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School Lessons Series) for Sunday, November 26, 2017, is from 1 Corinthians 11:20-34

More information

Luke 22: (ESV) The Last Supper (Maundy Thursday)

Luke 22: (ESV) The Last Supper (Maundy Thursday) Luke 22: 14-22 (ESV) The Last Supper (Maundy Thursday) If possible, have a small loaf of bread or some matzoh on a plate, and communion cups (or medicine cups) with cranberry or grape juice on a tray.

More information

Remembering the Sacrifice Believers are to approach remembrances of Jesus death with reverence and unity.

Remembering the Sacrifice Believers are to approach remembrances of Jesus death with reverence and unity. Session 6 Remembering the Sacrifice Believers are to approach remembrances of Jesus death with reverence and unity. 1 CORINTHIANS 11:17-29 Memorials are often created following major events, such as the

More information

ARTICLE 12 We believe in the Lord s Supper and washing of the saints feet.

ARTICLE 12 We believe in the Lord s Supper and washing of the saints feet. ARTICLE 12 We believe in the Lord s Supper and washing of the saints feet. During the Feast of the Passover, just before Jesus was to be sentenced to death and executed on the Cross, He instituted the

More information

NEW COVENANT, NEW COMMANDMENT

NEW COVENANT, NEW COMMANDMENT CHAPTER 12 NEW COVENANT, NEW COMMANDMENT For the first time, I was confronting the fact that Jesus announced the New Covenant and the New Commandment on the same night. Was this merely coincidental, or

More information

Communion Teaching Guide. Understanding the significance of the Lord s Supper

Communion Teaching Guide. Understanding the significance of the Lord s Supper Communion Teaching Guide Understanding the significance of the Lord s Supper Introduction This booklet is intended to serve as an instructional guide and reference for those who may have questions relating

More information

Using only one cup for the fruit of the vine

Using only one cup for the fruit of the vine This is a very unusual subject, in the sense that few people today study this subject. But because of a recent personal experience I felt a need to study it in detail. I hope you will find some benefit

More information

The Lord s Supper. This word appears in all four accounts of the memorial s institution (Matthew 26:27; Mark 14:23; Luke 22:19; 1 Corinthians 11:24).

The Lord s Supper. This word appears in all four accounts of the memorial s institution (Matthew 26:27; Mark 14:23; Luke 22:19; 1 Corinthians 11:24). The Lord s Supper God has always given people memorials to remind them of important events regarding their relationship with Him. He put a rainbow in the sky to remind Noah and the generations to come

More information

What Did Jesus Teach Us at the Last Supper? Matthew 26:26-29

What Did Jesus Teach Us at the Last Supper? Matthew 26:26-29 What Did Jesus Teach Us at the Last Supper? Matthew 26:26-29 EMC Good Friday, 2018 Turn in your Bibles to Matthew 26, please. This is Friday morning of Holy Week. Let s turn back the clock 15 or 16 hours,

More information

Finding Friends in an Unfriendly World

Finding Friends in an Unfriendly World Keith Watkins Finding Friends in an Unfriendly World No one has greater love than this, to lay down one s life for one s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. I do not call you servants

More information

Communion Read Luke 22:7-23. This takes place near Passover. Compare the Passover of Exodus with the crucifixtion.

Communion Read Luke 22:7-23. This takes place near Passover. Compare the Passover of Exodus with the crucifixtion. Communion Read Luke 22:7-23 This takes place near Passover. Compare the Passover of Exodus with the crucifixtion. v.10 May have been Mark s house and Mark was one carrying water Furnished = carpeting and

More information

HOLY BAPTISM TWO IN HOLY COMMUNION TWO

HOLY BAPTISM TWO IN HOLY COMMUNION TWO HOLY BAPTISM TWO IN HOLY COMMUNION TWO Pastoral Introduction Baptism marks the beginning of a journey with God which continues for the rest of our lives, the first step in response to God s love. For all

More information

The Lord's Supper Mark 14:12-26

The Lord's Supper Mark 14:12-26 The Lord's Supper Mark 14:12-26 Meals are important. More than just a means of nourishing a person, meals serve as a means for families to draw closer, talk, and as a means of getting together. Meals have

More information

Service for Ash Wednesday 14 February 2018 Introductory Notes. Background to the drought situation

Service for Ash Wednesday 14 February 2018 Introductory Notes. Background to the drought situation Service for Ash Wednesday 14 February 2018 Introductory Notes This service has management and planning developed by an ecumenical group of ministers as being an appropriate means of marking the start of

More information

The Jewish Passover was in remembrance of the deliverance from slavery in Egypt through the hands of Moses. Every year the Jews

The Jewish Passover was in remembrance of the deliverance from slavery in Egypt through the hands of Moses. Every year the Jews Sermon Luke 22 7 20 Maundy Thursday Series C Sermon: Maundy Thursday Text: Luke 22:7-20 (v. 8) Theme: Prepare the Passover! Goal: As the disciples prepared the Passover, we have to prepare the New Covenant

More information

A Great Prayer of Thanksgiving, with Commentary

A Great Prayer of Thanksgiving, with Commentary A Great Prayer of Thanksgiving, with Commentary Prepared by the dialogue of the Lutheran Church of Australia and the Uniting Church in Australia April 2012 INTRODUCTION In December 1985, a paper entitled

More information

Supplies & Set-up: Jesus of Nazareth video clip Waterbottle (1/person) Pita bread (1/table)

Supplies & Set-up: Jesus of Nazareth video clip Waterbottle (1/person) Pita bread (1/table) Supplies & Set-up: - Jesus of Nazareth video clip - Waterbottle (1/person) - Pita bread (1/table) - Koolaid powder, pitcher of water, clear glass and long handled spoon - Luther s sm. Catechism - Bibles

More information

COMMUNION & CP BIRTHDAY Isaiah 55:1-6; Revelation 22:17-20

COMMUNION & CP BIRTHDAY Isaiah 55:1-6; Revelation 22:17-20 COMMUNION & CP BIRTHDAY Isaiah 55:1-6; Revelation 22:17-20 This morning I have two sermons in one. I actually have two different sermons. Both are short, but both are relevant to our situation today. One

More information

BACKGROUND FOR THE BIBLE PASSAGES

BACKGROUND FOR THE BIBLE PASSAGES BACKGROUND FOR THE BIBLE PASSAGES Session 69: The Lord s Supper Few major doctrines of the Christian faith have been more misunderstood than the Scriptures teachings about the Lord s Supper. Historically,

More information

International Bible Lessons Commentary Luke 22:14-30 International Bible Lessons Sunday, March 24, 2013 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr.

International Bible Lessons Commentary Luke 22:14-30 International Bible Lessons Sunday, March 24, 2013 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr. International Bible Lessons Commentary Luke 22:14-30 International Bible Lessons Sunday, March 24, 2013 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr. The International Bible Lesson (Uniform Sunday School Lessons Series) for Sunday,

More information

CallToRestoration.com Restoring the Lord s Supper April 2009 Bulletin

CallToRestoration.com Restoring the Lord s Supper April 2009 Bulletin CallToRestoration.com Restoring the Lord s Supper Bulletin Table of Contents 1. The Institution of the Lord s Supper a. Jesus Celebrates the Passover b. Jesus Washes the Feet of the Apostles c. Jesus Institutes

More information

Vocabulary List for Grade 1

Vocabulary List for Grade 1 Vocabulary List for Grade 1 Word altar apostles Baptism Bible Blessed Trinity Christmas Church commandments creation Easter Sunday gospel reading grace Holy Family Lord's Prayer Mass parish pastor peacemaker

More information

Christ the Redeemer Anglican Church

Christ the Redeemer Anglican Church Christ the Redeemer Anglican Church Liturgies of the Seasons For use in the weekly gathering of God s people for worship and thanksgiving 1 Times and Seasons: the Christian Year (Adapted from the Introduction

More information

What it is and isn t, who it is for and what we re doing at the Lord s table.

What it is and isn t, who it is for and what we re doing at the Lord s table. 1 Worship is the expression of a relationship in which God the Father reveals himself and his love in Christ, and by his Holy Spirit administers grace, to which we respond in faith, gratitude, and obedience.

More information

THIS DO IN REMEMBRANCE OF ME :

THIS DO IN REMEMBRANCE OF ME : THIS DO IN REMEMBRANCE OF ME : THE IMPORTANCE OF THE LORD S SUPPER FREQUENTLY OBSERVED IN CHRIST S CHURCH REV. CHARLES R. BIGGS The Importance of the Lord s Supper Frequently Observed in Christ s Church

More information

Lord's Supper - I Corinthians 11:17-34 Kelly's Idiot Notes from the Gospel Advocate Commentary along with his own notes

Lord's Supper - I Corinthians 11:17-34 Kelly's Idiot Notes from the Gospel Advocate Commentary along with his own notes Lord's Supper - I Corinthians 11:17-34 Kelly's Idiot Notes from the Gospel Advocate Commentary along with his own notes 17. Reproof on Account of Gross Perversion of Lords Supper. 18. Object weekly meeting

More information

Eucharist. The Lord s Supper

Eucharist. The Lord s Supper CATECHIST RESOURCE Titles and Symbols of the Eucharist Cards Eucharist It is an action of thanksgiving to God. The Greek word eucharistein, which means thanksgiving, recalls the Jewish liturgies of the

More information

CONFIRMATION. The Gathering of God s People

CONFIRMATION. The Gathering of God s People The Gathering of God s People CONFIRMATION THE GREETING The bishop greets the people in these or other suitable words: Grace, mercy and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all

More information

Corpus Christi - C. Introduction

Corpus Christi - C. Introduction Corpus Christi - C Note: Where a Scripture text is underlined in the body of this discussion, it is recommended that the reader look up and read that passage. Introduction The feast of Corpus Christi,

More information

Doctrine #39 The Church: Her Organization and Ordinances

Doctrine #39 The Church: Her Organization and Ordinances Harbour Lake Baptist Church 52 Vital Doctrines of The Bible Doctrine #39 The Church: Her Organization and Ordinances Note: Most information based on pages 266-273 of the book Major Bible Themes by Lewis

More information

The Lord s Supper How to Take it (How Not to Take it)

The Lord s Supper How to Take it (How Not to Take it) The Lord s Supper How to Take it (How Not to Take it) Randy Broberg August 2011 The Serving of The Lord s Supper Reading of Last Supper passages or First Corinthians Prayer requesting blessing of the Bread

More information

LITURGY OF THE EARLY CHURCH AND THE MASS TODAY

LITURGY OF THE EARLY CHURCH AND THE MASS TODAY Remember the Sabbath day ---- keep it holy. Six days you may labor and do all your work, but on the seventh day is a Sabbath of the Lord your God. Ex. 20:8-10 Keep the Sabbath, for that is to be the sign

More information

Until I was six years of age, I was part of the local United Methodist Church in which my

Until I was six years of age, I was part of the local United Methodist Church in which my A Wesleyan View of Communion March 15, 2011 Ryan Gear ryangear.com Until I was six years of age, I was part of the local United Methodist Church in which my grandmother served as a layspeaker. Being so

More information

The lesson seems to be in the sacrificial loving and serving, rather than in the particular activity of foot washing.

The lesson seems to be in the sacrificial loving and serving, rather than in the particular activity of foot washing. 1 Why Communion Matters 4/30/2017 Acts 2:42 And they devoted themselves to Apostles teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to the prayers. to the breaking of bread. There were two physical

More information

Maundy Thursday. Eucharist of the Lord s Supper. with the Maundy or Washing of Feet

Maundy Thursday. Eucharist of the Lord s Supper. with the Maundy or Washing of Feet Maundy Thursday Eucharist of the Lord s Supper with the Maundy or Washing of Feet Liturgy for Maundy Thursday Notes Maundy Thursday marks the beginning of the Triduum, the three-day observance of the death

More information

We Proclaim and Celebrate:

We Proclaim and Celebrate: We Proclaim and Celebrate: The Position of the AALC on the Lord s Supper by Kristofer Carlson April 2006 [I was assigned the task of preparing a document outlining the position of the AALC on the Lord

More information

Questions and Answers on the Eucharist

Questions and Answers on the Eucharist Questions and Answers on the Eucharist Pennsylvania Conference of Catholic Bishops 1999 - Present by Adoremus All rights reserved. http://www.adoremus.org Why is the Eucharist so important to the Church?

More information

Global Good News Literature. Basic Christianity

Global Good News Literature. Basic Christianity Basic Christianity 1 "16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete,

More information

This is My Body... This is My Blood A Sermon for Communion Sunday Mark 14:22-26

This is My Body... This is My Blood A Sermon for Communion Sunday Mark 14:22-26 This is My Body... This is My Blood A Sermon for Communion Sunday Mark 14:22-26 Rev. Michael D. Halley May 1, 2016 Suffolk Christian Church Suffolk, Virginia Sixth Sunday of Easter ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

More information

Ecclesiology (Sacraments)

Ecclesiology (Sacraments) Disclosure: Moore College Distance has produced a Correspondence Course called Doctrine 3: The Church written by Canon D. B. Knox. This seminar follows his outline and logic and reproduces much of what

More information

Common Worship. Holy Baptism

Common Worship. Holy Baptism Common Worship Holy Baptism 1 Structure The people and the priest greet each other in the Lord s name keep silence and pray a Collect proclaim and respond to the word of God welcome the candidates for

More information

20 What Will You Do With Jesus?

20 What Will You Do With Jesus? WHAT WILL YOU DO WITH JESUS? 241 20 What Will You Do With Jesus? Even as large and as complex as this world is, according to the divine Scriptures, it is only a place of preparation for the life we will

More information

Growing in our understanding of Holy Eucharist:

Growing in our understanding of Holy Eucharist: Growing in our understanding of Holy Eucharist: Worship is at the heart of all we do in the Episcopal Church. We gather to be renewed in our faith and formed in our life. We take great care with worship,

More information

How Important is Baptism, the Supper, and Church Membership?

How Important is Baptism, the Supper, and Church Membership? How Important is Baptism, the Supper, and Church Membership? July 17, 2016 Steve DeWitt As you can see from the sermon title, our topics today are baptism, the Lord s Supper, and church membership. Why

More information

THE LORD S SUPPER. Luke 22:19 LESSON AIM KEY VERSE ITEMS NEEDED DECLARATION OF FAITH. soul. INVESTIGATION

THE LORD S SUPPER. Luke 22:19 LESSON AIM KEY VERSE ITEMS NEEDED DECLARATION OF FAITH. soul. INVESTIGATION THE LORD S SUPPER Luke 22:19 LESSON AIM KEY VERSE ITEMS NEEDED DECLARATION OF FAITH To understand why Jesus instructed His followers to observe Holy Communion.... This is My body which is given for you;

More information

Kindergarten Vocabulary

Kindergarten Vocabulary Kindergarten Vocabulary Advent a time to get ready to celebrate the coming of the Son of God. (CCC #522-524) Alleluia: means praise God. Sung or recited before the Gospel except during Lent. Altar: the

More information

What Happens in Worship: A Commentary

What Happens in Worship: A Commentary What Happens in Worship: A Commentary God Calls Us to Worship Q: Why do we have a call to worship at the beginning of the service in which God calls us to worship? A: When the church gathers for corporate

More information

THE PASSOVER AND THE LORD'S SUPPER

THE PASSOVER AND THE LORD'S SUPPER THE PASSOVER Unleavened Bread AND Fruit of the Vine (Grape Juice) THE LORD'S SUPPER "Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us!" I Corinthians 5:7 The Passover is a memorial that had its origin on the night

More information

Using only one cup for the fruit of the vine

Using only one cup for the fruit of the vine This is a very unusual subject, in the sense that few people today study this subject. But because of a recent personal experience I felt a need to study it in detail. I hope you will find some benefit

More information

A LITURGY FOR ANGLICARE SUNDAY

A LITURGY FOR ANGLICARE SUNDAY A LITURGY FOR ANGLICARE SUNDAY Suggested Hymns and Songs for Anglicare Sunday (Together in Song) Praise with Joy the World s Creator (179) Jesus Christ is Waiting (665) Beauty for Brokenness (690) When

More information

The COCU Liturgy of 1968 A Model for Christian Celebration

The COCU Liturgy of 1968 A Model for Christian Celebration The COCU Liturgy of 1968 A Model for Christian Celebration AN ORDER OF WORSHIP On Sunday December 4, 1960, a sermon preached in San Francisco seized the imagination of people across the United States and

More information

A Meaningful Communion 1Co 10:17 "Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf." Text: 1Cor.11.

A Meaningful Communion 1Co 10:17 Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf. Text: 1Cor.11. One Loaf, One Body: A Meaningful Communion 1Co 10:17 "Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf." Text: 1Cor.11.23-34 Wesley FMC, 10 2011 (World Communion

More information

FOUNDATION. Part Two PASSOVER AND THE COVENANTS. 15 Then He said to them, With fervent desire I have desired to eat this

FOUNDATION. Part Two PASSOVER AND THE COVENANTS. 15 Then He said to them, With fervent desire I have desired to eat this FOUNDATION Part Two Apostle Jacquelyn F. Fedor PASSOVER AND THE COVENANTS Luke 22:15 20 15 Then He said to them, With fervent desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; 16 for

More information

St. Vincent de Paul Parish

St. Vincent de Paul Parish St. Vincent de Paul Parish Study 23: The Gospel of John Part 2: Signs Bible Study The Book of Signs. John is unique among the four evangelists in that he speaks of Christ s miracles as signs. By doing

More information

Confirmation Make-up Lesson: Please read, study and prepare a two page essay including and covering the statements following the teaching.

Confirmation Make-up Lesson: Please read, study and prepare a two page essay including and covering the statements following the teaching. Confirmation Make-up Lesson: Please read, study and prepare a two page essay including and covering the statements following the teaching. THE SACRAMENTS OF INITIATION The Sacraments of Initiation make

More information

A18. The Last Supper John 13:1-17, Matthew 26:17-30, Luke 22:7-20

A18. The Last Supper John 13:1-17, Matthew 26:17-30, Luke 22:7-20 Page1 A18. The Last Supper John 13:1-17, Matthew 26:17-30, Luke 22:7-20 Learning Objectives 1. The children will examine what happened at the Last Supper. 2. The children will recognize why we celebrate

More information

What the Church Does for God

What the Church Does for God 78 T h e C h u r c h LESSON 8 What the Church Does for God In Lesson 6, we studied how Christians help each other in the body of Christ. In Lesson 7, we saw some of our responsibilities to unbelievers.

More information

Understanding. Mass. the. Steve Mueller

Understanding. Mass. the. Steve Mueller Understanding the Mass Steve Mueller 1 Living a Eucharistic Life This little booklet has been produced to help you grow in understanding and appreciation of our eucharistic ritual so that you may participate

More information

The Flesh And Blood Of Jesus Christ: Our Food And Drink

The Flesh And Blood Of Jesus Christ: Our Food And Drink The Flesh And Blood Of Jesus Christ: Our Food And Drink by J. W. Jepson Copyright 2017 by J. W. Jepson. Scripture quotations are from the New King James Version (NKJV) 1990 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used

More information

Blessed are the people whose God is the Lord Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised

Blessed are the people whose God is the Lord Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised Blessed are the people whose God is the Lord Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised Every day I will bless you, oh loving Father, We praise your name forever and ever We worship our King who has

More information

Annotated Holy Eucharist

Annotated Holy Eucharist Seasons of the Church Year During the year, we take a deeper look at different understandings of God and his son Jesus Christ that we learn in scripture. The seasons of the church year are helpful ways

More information

S K I L L S Reading and reference skills, research skills, mapping skills, thinking skills, speaking and listening, interpreting symbolism.

S K I L L S Reading and reference skills, research skills, mapping skills, thinking skills, speaking and listening, interpreting symbolism. UNIT H YEAR 5 HOLY WEEK WEEK A B O U T T H E U N I T In this unit children will gain a greater knowledge and understanding of the last week of Jesus life and how the Church celebrates this week through

More information

Session I. Common Ground for Understanding the Eucharist:Scripture Basics. Opening Prayer : Priest or leader of the group may lead a prayer of choice.

Session I. Common Ground for Understanding the Eucharist:Scripture Basics. Opening Prayer : Priest or leader of the group may lead a prayer of choice. Session I Common Ground for Understanding the Eucharist:Scripture Basics Opening Prayer : Priest or leader of the group may lead a prayer of choice. Faith Sharing focus: This weekend is devoted to gaining

More information

The Parish Church of St Faith, Great Crosby. The Eucharist from Ascension Day to Pentecost

The Parish Church of St Faith, Great Crosby. The Eucharist from Ascension Day to Pentecost The Parish Church of St Faith, Great Crosby The Eucharist from Ascension Day to Pentecost 1 2 The Gathering Hymn +In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Alleluia! Christ

More information

The Servant King. Please see the curriculum Introduction.pdf for more guidance on praying with your group and on Scripture memory.

The Servant King. Please see the curriculum Introduction.pdf for more guidance on praying with your group and on Scripture memory. Curriculum The Last Supper, from Mark 14 and John 13 14 Please see the curriculum Introduction.pdf for more guidance on praying with your group and on Scripture memory. The total allotted time per lesson

More information

Year 6: You Shall be my Witnesses (Born in the Spirit: CCCB)

Year 6: You Shall be my Witnesses (Born in the Spirit: CCCB) Year 6: You Shall be my Witnesses (Born in the Spirit: CCCB) Outcomes by Units and Themes Cognitive Unit 1: You are my friends Know what a friend is and understand that God is present in our friendships

More information

Living Savior Lutheran Church

Living Savior Lutheran Church Living Savior Lutheran Church 4616 Gharrett St Missoula, MT 59803 livingsaviormissoula.org 406.543.8222 Pastor Noah Willitz pastor@livingsaviormissoula.org September 2, 2018 Pentecost 15 WELCOME TO WORSHIP

More information

CHILDREN and COMMUNION SUNNYVALE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

CHILDREN and COMMUNION SUNNYVALE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH CHILDREN and COMMUNION SUNNYVALE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH This information has been prepared to assist parents and guardians of children: 1. In the decision of when the child should begin to celebrate the sacrament

More information

The Mind of Christ The Memorial of Love Part Three

The Mind of Christ The Memorial of Love Part Three (Mind of Christ 24c The Memorial of Love Part 3) 1 The Mind of Christ The Memorial of Love Part Three INTRODUCTION: I. In our series entitled The Mind of Christ, we re now focusing our attention on the

More information

The God Who Delivers (Part 5 of 6)

The God Who Delivers (Part 5 of 6) February 17, 2013 College Park Church The God Who Delivers (Part 5 of 6) The Promised Passover: Saved by the Blood of a Lamb Exodus 12:1-13 Mark Vroegop The LORD said to Moses and Aaron in the land of

More information

Moreland Christian Church Written by Peter Tobgui. This material may be freely reproduced.

Moreland Christian Church   Written by Peter Tobgui. This material may be freely reproduced. Moreland Christian Church www.morelandchristianchurch.org.au Written by Peter Tobgui. This material may be freely reproduced. Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version, copyright

More information

Hosanna Hosanna 1 of 7

Hosanna Hosanna 1 of 7 Week of April 9 And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest! (Matthew 21:9)

More information

Preterism and the Lord's Supper

Preterism and the Lord's Supper Preterism and the Lord's Supper 1 Corinthians 11:26 I s the observance of the Lord's Supper inconsistent with the preterist view of eschatology? Since I have come to the preterist view, I have been asked

More information

THE MASS (Part 4) THE LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST (Part B)

THE MASS (Part 4) THE LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST (Part B) THE MASS (Part 4) THE LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST (Part B) This consists of:- Preface, Holy, Holy, Holy Lord, Epiclesis, Narrative of the Institution, Memorial Acclamation, Anamnesis, Offering, Intercessions

More information

Churches Baptize Believers

Churches Baptize Believers LESSON 5 Churches Baptize Believers Years ago in mainland China some Chinese Christians were discussing various churches views on water baptism. One lay leader expressed said, Some groups believe in Big

More information

The Directory for Worship: A Study Guide for the Proposed Revision

The Directory for Worship: A Study Guide for the Proposed Revision The Directory for Worship: A Study Guide for the Proposed Revision This study guide is designed to facilitate understanding and discussion of the proposed revision to the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Directory

More information

LENT EUCHARISTIC LITURGY

LENT EUCHARISTIC LITURGY A LENT EUCHARISTIC LITURGY http://nicholascoates.blogspot.com/2013/02/eucharistic-liturgy-for-first-sunday-of.html THE PRESENTATION AND OFFERING OF THE BREAD AND WINE At the taking of the bread Blessed

More information

NewLife. The Church. Study 1. Unit B. The Church and the Churches. READ: Acts 9: 31 and 11: 19-26

NewLife. The Church. Study 1. Unit B. The Church and the Churches. READ: Acts 9: 31 and 11: 19-26 BIBLE STUDY COURSE This study sheet belongs to: Study 1. The Church Unit B The Church and the Churches READ: Acts 9: 1 and 11: 19-6 KEY VERSE: 1 Timothy : 1 I write so that you may know how you ought to

More information

Sacrament of the Altar Lesson 9 Year 1

Sacrament of the Altar Lesson 9 Year 1 Memory Verse of the Week: Matthew 26:26-28 (ESV) Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took

More information

Remembering the Sacrifice

Remembering the Sacrifice Session 6 Remembering the Sacrifice Believers are to approach remembrances of Jesus death with reverence and unity. 1 CORINTHIANS 11:17-29 MEMORY VERSE: 1 CORINTHIANS 11:26 READ 1 Corinthians 11:2-34,

More information

LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST

LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST We will continue our teaching Mass this week after the Liturgy of the WORD. We begin with a brief quote from General Instruction of the Roman Missal. These two principle parts of the Mass (the Liturgy

More information

Passover 2 nd 5 th grade Sunday school March 29, 2015

Passover 2 nd 5 th grade Sunday school March 29, 2015 Passover 2 nd 5 th grade Sunday school March 29, 2015 Students will experience the Seder meal to understand the connection to The Last Supper as Jesus ate with and spoke to his disciples. The following

More information

In Search of the Lord's Way. "The Lord s Supper"

In Search of the Lord's Way. The Lord s Supper "The Lord s Supper" Each Lord s day, God s family gathers to remember and proclaim the death of our Lord Jesus by partaking of the Lord s Supper. Hello, I m Phil Sanders. And this is a Bible study, In

More information

20 What Will You Do With Jesus?

20 What Will You Do With Jesus? WHAT WILL YOU DO WITH JESUS? 241 20 What Will You Do With Jesus? Even as large and as complex as this world is, according to the divine Scriptures, it is only a place of preparation for the life we will

More information

From Sorrow to Joy! From Jeremiah to Jesus!

From Sorrow to Joy! From Jeremiah to Jesus! From Sorrow to Joy! From Jeremiah to Jesus! Sermon Transcript March 6, 2016 New Covenant Joy! The Promise of God Jeremiah 31:31-34 This message from the Bible was addressed originally to the people of

More information

SESSION AND THE DIRECTORY OF WORSHIP Presbytery of Detroit Clerk Training January 26, 2013 CHAPTER I. THE DYNAMICS OF CHRISTIAN WORSHIP

SESSION AND THE DIRECTORY OF WORSHIP Presbytery of Detroit Clerk Training January 26, 2013 CHAPTER I. THE DYNAMICS OF CHRISTIAN WORSHIP 1 SESSION AND THE DIRECTORY OF WORSHIP Presbytery of Detroit Clerk Training January 26, 2013 W-1.0000 CHAPTER I. THE DYNAMICS OF CHRISTIAN WORSHIP W-1.4004 Session In a particular church, the session is

More information

The Parchment. The Gospel of Mark. Using This Study. EXAMINE His Word. EXPLORE His Word. EMBRACE His Word

The Parchment. The Gospel of Mark. Using This Study. EXAMINE His Word. EXPLORE His Word. EMBRACE His Word The Parchment Studies for making fully devoted followers of Christ The Gospel of Mark June 11, 2017 Mark 14:12-52 Vol. 7 Num. 24 Pastor Kirk Gambrell Using This Study EXAMINE His Word What does God SAY?

More information

Why and How do we do liturgy at Grace Vancouver Church?

Why and How do we do liturgy at Grace Vancouver Church? Why and How do we do liturgy at Grace Vancouver Church? Why do we come to worship? There are two reasons one might come to worship on a Sunday morning. The first is to be there for God, the other is to

More information

Welcome to Summer Worship at Zion! I LOVE TO TELL THE STORY Rediscovering God s Grace in the Old Testament The Promise of Passover

Welcome to Summer Worship at Zion! I LOVE TO TELL THE STORY Rediscovering God s Grace in the Old Testament The Promise of Passover Welcome to Summer Worship at Zion! I LOVE TO TELL THE STORY Rediscovering God s Grace in the Old Testament The Promise of Passover 1732 S. Main St. Aberdeen, SD 57401 605-225-6755 Email: zion@nvc.net Website:

More information