1 Corinthians 11:28 - A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup.
Jesus told us that we are to, “Do this in remembrance of me.” When He spoke those words He was referring to the time when He shared the bread and wine with His disciples.
After they had eaten their last Passover together Jesus took the bread, broke it and passed it around the table. He told them that it represented His body which would be broken for them. After the bread, He took the cup and passed it to His disciples telling them that it was His blood that would be poured out for them.
When they all finished He told them, and us, that we need to do this to remember Him. Keep in mind, though, that God is more concerned with the heart behind your actions than the actions themselves. If you are partaking of the bread and cup just because you are instructed to then it will do you no good.
Paul tells us that we must first examine ourselves. Look at your heart. Why are you wanting to join into this ceremony? Don’t just take it to take it. Reflect on what it represents. Look for the meaning behind the action.
Every time that you have the opportunity to take the bread and cup use it as a chance to remember that Christ died for you. Examine your heart and if there is any sin that you have not confessed and repented of, take care of it. Bring it before God and allow Christ’s blood to cleanse you and purify you.
Then take the bread and cup as a celebration of what Christ has already done for you. Because of Christ’s sacrifice we are cleansed, purified and made righteous. Never take that for granted.
