Receiving the Word of God

1 Thessalonians 2:13

"For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe."

1 Corinthians 11:23-26

For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you: that the Lord Jesus on the same night in which He was betrayed took bread; 24 and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” 25 In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.”

26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes."

Notice the parallel between these two texts.  Paul tells the Thessalonians He thanks God that they received the Word of God as from God.  Paul explains to the Corinthians that he received from the Lord the explanation of this sacrament.  Receiving bread and wine, eating and drinking is a picture of receiving the Word of God.  Just as Scripture is God’s very words, so this communion is partaking of Christ’s very life.  His body remains in heaven, but by the Spirit, He is really present.  By faith God really brings us into fellowship and union with our Lord Jesus here.  His body was broken for you.  His blood is the blood of the covenant that saves you.  He bled and died at the cross, paying for your sins forever.

So come and welcome to the Lord Jesus Christ.  Take hold of Him.  Rely on Him alone as You receive His grace.

10/21/18