17 July 2026
Paul’s warning about the Lord’s Supper has often troubled sincere Christians. We read, “So, then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sin against the body and blood of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 11:27). Many believers wonder whether they are worthy enough to come to the table. Yet Mark Penrith pointed out that, “Verse 27 talks of an unworthy manner. It does not talk of an unworthy person.” The warning is not aimed at humble believers who know they need God’s grace. It is aimed at proud believers whose lives deny the gospel they profess.
Paul immediately explains the proper response. “Let a person examine himself, in this way let him eat the bread and drink from the cup” (1 Corinthians 11:28). Self examination is not an invitation to endless introspection. It is an opportunity to ask whether our relationships reflect the grace we have received. As Mark explained, “This is a call to look hard at your relationships within this community.” He asks, “Are you harbouring bitterness? Are you ignoring the poor? Are you staying in your comfortable, elite social cliques while others are marginalized?” The Lord’s Table calls us to examine not only our hearts before God, but also our attitudes toward His people.
Paul goes on to warn that “whoever eats and drinks without recognising the body, eats and drinks judgment on himself” (1 Corinthians 11:29). The issue is not that Christians occasionally fail. The issue is refusing to repent while continuing to mistreat Christ’s body. Mark reminds us, “This text is not a diagnostic tool for you to read your present illness as a specific punishment for a secret sin.” Instead, “This is covenantal judgment meant for restoration.” The Lord lovingly disciplines His people so they will turn back to Him before greater judgment comes.
Take time today to ask the Lord to search your heart. If you have been avoiding someone or holding onto bitterness, prayerfully seek reconciliation. Do not allow pride to harden your heart. If you have children, let them see what repentance looks like by apologising quickly when you sin against them. As Mark said, “You can come joyfully and freely to this table, as you abandon your sin.” God’s grace welcomes humble sinners who are willing to repent.
Is there any relationship that needs attention before your next opportunity to gather with God’s people?
Prayer:
Father, search my heart and reveal any pride, bitterness, or selfishness within me. Give me humility to repent, courage to seek reconciliation, and joy as I rest in the grace of Jesus Christ. Amen.