The Doctrine of The Church - Part 4

1. The Lord’s Supper (Communion)

Matthew 26:26–29 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 a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of 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 not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.”

What is the Meaning of the Lord’s Supper?

Christ’s Death

The Believers Participation in the Crucified Christ

Spiritual Nourishment

The Unity of Believers

Who Should Participate in the Lord’s Supper?

2. Church Discipline

Leviticus 19:1–2 ESV

And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, “Speak to all the congregation of the people of Israel and say to them, You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.

1 Corinthians 5:12–13 ESV

For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Is it not those inside the church whom you are to judge? God judges those outside. “Purge the evil person from among you.”

Purposes of Church Discipline

a. For restoration and reconciliation of the Believer who is going astray

2 Corinthians 2:6 ESV

For such a one, this punishment by the majority is enough,

Hebrews 12:6 ESV

For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.”

Galatians 6:1 ESV

Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.

1 Corinthians 5:5 ESV

you are to deliver this man to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord.

b. To keep sin from spreading to others

Hebrews 12:15 ESV

See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no “root of bitterness” springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled;

1 Timothy 5:20 ESV

As for those who persist in sin, rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear.

c. To protect the purity of the church and the honor of Christ

Romans 2:24 ESV

For, as it is written, “The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.”

1 Corinthians 5:1–2 ESV

It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that is not tolerated even among pagans, for a man has his father’s wife. And you are arrogant! Ought you not rather to mourn? Let him who has done this be removed from among you.

3. Church Government

Episcopalian

Presbyterian

Congregational