May I Partake of the LORD’S Table

“The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? the bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?” (1 Cor. 10:16 NKJ)

VII. Worthy receivers outwardly partaking of the visible elements in this sacrament, do then also, inwardly by faith, really and indeed, yet not carnally and corporally, but spiritually, receive and feed upon Christ crucified, and all benefits of His death: the body and blood of Christ being then, not corporally or carnally, in, with, or under the bread and wine; yet, as really, but spiritually, present to the faith of believers in that ordinance, as the elements themselves are to their outward senses.

-Westminster Confession of Faith 29:7

If you are new to the Church of Philadelphia, or just visiting, please take a moment before communion to take a look in the back of the Trinity Hymnal (also see online “Our Confessions” ). On page 845 you will find “The Apostle’s Creed”, and on page 847 you will see the beginning of the Westminster Confession of Faith. Please read just Chapter 1, for now. If this Creed summarizes your Christian faith, and Chapter 1 describes your beliefs concerning the Scriptures, we welcome you, in our common confession, to the Worship of the Triune God. If you have likewise been baptized in the Triune Name; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and are a member in good standing with a like-minded, biblical Church, we welcome you to partake of the LORD’s Supper. We would ask that you approach one of our Elders afterward, that we might communicate with the leadership of your congregation for the sake of unity and accountability. Please remember that the Word of God informs us that Holy Communion is a blessing for those who have fled the Wrath of God by running to Christ in repentance and faith. Those who are complacent in their sin “eat and drink judgement on themselves (please read 1 Cor. 11:27-32).” The Scriptures implore us to examine ourselves, to see that we are in the Faith (2 Cor. 13:5). Many have agreed with confessions and nodded at creeds, who have not a true love of Christ and His Gospel. Many others have sought to examine their hearts, only to find that we all are not yet without indwelling sin. If you love the triune God of Scripture and long to love Him more, then this Table is set for you. If you hate your sin and hate even more your tendency toward it, then come and partake of Grace Himself. The complacent and self-righteous eat and drink wrath, but this holy meal is for those who have found their wholeness in Christ though brokenness and contrition. If this joy is yours, then come and welcome to Christ!