Communion
After spending some time studying baptism last Sunday, we will now turn our attention to the second ordinance: communion. On the surface, it may seem like an unusual practice to some, but it holds great significance and has been a foundational practice in the history of the church since its institution by Jesus.
If we’re not careful, this ordinance can become something we do without putting much thought into it. That’s something we want to avoid. As we look through 1 Corinthians 11:17-34, we’ll see how Paul was forced to denounce the Corinthian believers’ careless approach to the Lord’s Table. Instead of observing it as Christ intended, they were using it as an opportunity to satisfy their own selfish and sinful desires.
There is great joy in observing Communion, as it reminds us how Christ made a way for us to be saved. It also carries a certain solemnity that cannot be ignored, as the bread and the cup point us directly to the suffering and death that Christ endured on the cross. We should want to come to this table with sincere hearts before our Lord, giving thanks to him, while also remembering his incredible sacrifice.
I hope you can join us to gather around God’s Word together this Sunday. Communion will be incorporated into the message, as we reflect on the purpose of the ordinance and the excellence of our Saviour.
Series: 2 Ordinances
Message: Communion
Text: 1 Corinthians 11:17-34
Patrice Charade
Harvest Alliston
June 14, 2026
Gathering at the Lord’s table, I am invited to…
…come with a sincere heart (v. 17-22, 27-34)
1 Corinthians 10:16-17
…give thanks for his provision (v. 23-24a)
May I see Christ crucified before my eyes in the breaking of the bread and the pouring out of the wine. And may I not forget the cause, my corruptions, but so think of them together with my Saviour’s kindness in dying to make satisfaction for them…though the pain were his, yet the profit is mine; though the wounds were his, yet the balm is mine; though the thorns were his, yet the crown is mine; though the price were his, yet the purchase is mine.
– George Swinnock
…remember his body and blood (v. 24b-25)
Isaiah 53:3-6
1 Peter 2:24
1 Peter 1:18-19
…proclaim the gospel until he returns (v. 26)
