The Two-fold Testimony In Breaking Bread - Zac Poonen
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Summary
The sermon emphasizes that participating in the Lord's Table requires a thorough self-examination concerning both one's relationship with God (vertical) and one's relationship with fellow believers (horizontal). Self-examination means confessing sins to God and making amends with others; the horizontal aspect signifies commitment and fellowship within the local church body. Taking part lightly, either by neglecting personal confession or by lacking commitment to the community, risks spiritual judgment.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Taking part in the Lord's table with understandingBelievers often partake in the Lord's table out of ritual or expectation of blessing, but Scripture requires taking part with proper understanding and self-examination.
The serious warning of self-examinationFirst Corinthians 11 warns that failing to judge oneself before eating and drinking brings judgment rather than blessing, resulting in weakness, sickness, or even death.1 Corinthians 11:28–30
Examining our vertical relationship with GodThe cross has two arms, with the vertical direction representing our conscience and relationship with God, requiring confession and attempts to make things right.
Judging ourselves rightlyIf we judge ourselves according to our conscience and commit to setting wrongs right at the first opportunity, God will not judge us.
The horizontal part of the crossThe second aspect of the cross is our relationship with one another in the local body, signified by partaking from one loaf of bread.1 Corinthians 10:16
Commitment to the local church familyPartaking of the bread means having a genuine commitment to the local church rather than acting like a visitor who takes zero responsibility.
Serving and protecting the church familyGod does not ask for money, but for commitment, loyalty, and a willingness to serve the church and bring issues to the elders instead of gossiping.
A concluding prayer for understanding and commitmentThe speaker invites the congregation to examine themselves without condemnation, pray for guidance, and mean their testimony of belonging to the church family.
