Matthew 26:26-29, “What Is Communion?”

Intro: For centuries Christians have participated in Communion together as a proclamation of what God has done in Christ on the Cross. In this message, Brad Evangelista explores the significance and meaning of what Christians are doing when they gather together at the Lord's Table.

Text: Matthew 26:26-29

1. We remember Jesus’ death in our place for our sins.

A). Our sins are imputed/transferred to Christ.

• Isaiah 53:4-6
• 1 Peter 2:21-25 

B). He absorbs our punishment.

• Hebrews 2:17 

C). His righteousness is imputed/transferred to us.

• 2 Corinthians 5:21
• Romans 8:1-3
• Colossians 1:27

2. We identify with Jesus in his death.

• Galatians 2:20
• Colossians 3:1-4 
• Dietrich Bonheoffer—“When Christ calls a man, he bids him to come and die.” 

3. We examine our lives.                 

A). Repentance for a lifetime.

• Martin Luther: #1—When our Lord and Master said, “Repent” he willed that the entire life of a believer be one of repentance. #3—and that repentance is worthless unless it produces some change.

B). The danger of receiving in an unworthy manner or without discerning the body.

• 1 Corinthians 11:23-34

4. We remember our dependence on Christ.

• Hebrews 1:3
• Colossians 1:17

5. We remember our unity with other Christians.

6. We proclaim the Gospel.

7. We anticipate Jesus’ return.

A). This transforms how we view this world.

• J.I. Packer–“And still he seeks the fellowship of his people, and sends them both joy and sorrow to detach their hands from the things of this world and attach their hands to Himself.”

B). This transforms our view of suffering.

• Revelation 21:1-7