Examining Ourselves

27 Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord. 28 Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 29 For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. 30 That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. 31 But if we judged ourselves truly, we would not be judged. 32 But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world.
1 Corinthians 11:27-32
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Examining Ourselves
With these words, Paul emphasizes the deep reverence and careful preparation required for receiving the Lord’s Supper. Closed communion, the historic practice of the church, safeguards both the sanctity of the Sacrament and the well-being of those partaking. By examining ourselves and discerning the Lord’s body, we approach His table with the understanding that this is not merely a symbolic meal, but Christ’s true body and blood given for our forgiveness. Allowing only those who share a common confession of faith protects against receiving the Sacrament in an unworthy manner, which brings judgment. Closed communion is an act of love—keeping us from harm and ensuring we all partake in the unity of the faith, proclaiming Christ's death until He comes again.